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LIFE AND LETTERS 



MAEY S. LIPPINCOTT 



LATE OF CAMDEN, NEW JERSEY, 



A MINISTER IN THE SOCIETY OE ERIENDS. 



/ love them that love me ; and those that seek me early shall find me. 
Prov. viii: 17. 



PHILADELPHIA: 
Wm. H. Pile's Sons, Printers, 422 Walnut Street. 

1893. 



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PREFACE. 

The reader will bear in mind that this work has been prepared 
for the press at the request, and by direction of some of the rela- 
tives of M. S. L. 

These felt desirous to preserve her writings in a form more 
convenient and more permanent than that of manuscript, also to 
give to the many who had known and loved her, an opportunity 
to learn something of her inner, as well as of her outer life. 

In the hope that it may prove acceptable to her friends with- 
out, as well as to those within the circle of kindred, and to some 
even beyond the limits of personal acquaintance, it is submitted to 
such as may feel inclined to peruse it. 



CONTENTS 



Introduction— Memorial. 



CHAPTER I. 



Birth, Parentage and Family — Shoemakertown — Benjamin Shoemaker's 
Death — Removal to Horsham — First School — Removal to Abington — 
Goes to Westtovvn — Death of her brother James — Goes to Fair Hill 
School — Returns to Cheltenham — Goes to Westtown as Teacher — Re- 
ligious Exercises — Friends who Visited at Westtown — Goes to Rennselaer- 
ville — Marriage — Removal to Chesterville— Gift in the Ministry Acknowl- 
edged — Her Children — Removal to Moorestown — Boarding School — 
Death of Comly Shoemaker — Clerk of Women's Yearly Meeting — 
Death of her Mother — Death of Husband — Death of Brother and Sisters 
— Removal to Camden— Religious Visits — Death of Daughter — Last 
Years— Death. 

CHAPTER II. 

Self Examination — The Westtown Meetings for Worship — William Flanner 
— J. Cook — William Foster — John Mott — Jesse Haines — Great Dis- 
couragement — [Long Interval]— Review of Writings — Concern for Slave 
Holders — Prospect of Opening School — New Year Reflections — Death of 
Mary Jessup — Death of Naomi Passmore — Birthday Reflections — The 
Widow's Loneliness — The War — Discontinuance of School — Last Entry 
in Diary. 

CHAPTER III. 

Letters to One Young in the Ministry — To her Nephew — To her Grandson 
— To George Hatton — To R. and S. H. — To her Daughter — To George 
Hatton— To her Granddaughter — Detached Paragraphs from Letters. 



vi Contents. 

CHAPTER IV. 
A Word of Exhortation— For the Journal — A Fragment — Passing Time- 
Honor and Duty — Secret for Happiness— The Members and the Body 
— The Friends — Out of my Place — My Daily Duties — A Contrast — 
George Parker— Anna B. Wells— Isaac Lippincott— Jane S. Lippincott. 

CHAPTER V. 

An Aspiration — The Struggle — Overcoming Temptation — Reflections — 
Nature— Truth— Hymn— Hymn— To A. J. S.— A Prayer— Lines to R. S. 
Parting Lines— A Thought— An Aspiration— Bless Us, O Father, Bless 
—To My Husband— The Star— To George Hatton— Stanzas— Life— On 
the Death of my Husband— My Departed Husband. 



INTRODUCTION 



In preparing for publication the writings of Mary S. Lippincott, 
it seemed desirable to give the prominent incidents of her life in the 
order of their occurrence, and to make the account as nearly complete 
as the preserved memoranda, with some additional information, would 
warrant. 

To do this, involved the necessity of collecting items from dif- 
ferent sources, and of arranging them in the order of time, or of 
subject, as nearly as the void intervals would permit, and as the 
narration of the incidents seemed to require. 

Chapter I. has been prepared on this general plan ; and since 
much of the information was unwritten, the phraseology could not be 
given, but the attempt has been made to render the thought, and to 
supply such details as the data would furnish. 

From her tenth to her eighteenth year there is little to be found 
in the records of the family, and from the time of her marriage until 
after her removal to Moorestown, a period of thirteen years, the Diary 
is a blank. From the year 1842 until the close of her life, we are 
fairly well informed of the most important incidents connected with 
her personal history, and also of her impressions and religious ex- 
ercises. The first entry in her Diary [that has been preserved] was 
made when she was in her twenty-third year ; and the last one was 
recorded on the seventy- fourth anniversary of her birth-day. Family 
memoranda, oral information, and some reminiscences have furnished 
the information given before the former date ; and her own letters, 
the accounts of her friends who visited her, also the testimony of 
members of her family, and of the physician who attended her, have 
been drawn upon for the remaining thirteen years of her life. 

Chapter II. needed but little alteration, and no additions ; and 
as it is her own account of her trials and exercises, it will be of in- 
terest to those who can enter into sympathy with the pathetic narra- 
tion of her experience. As it gives a view of her inner life, it enables 
us the more to appreciate her ministry, after we have seen the depths 
from which it was evolved. 



viii Introduction. 

Chapter III. is a series of extracts from a voluminous cor- 
respondence ; and it introduces the reader into her society as she was 
known in her middle and later life. Though few of the letters have 
been given in full, yet it was not deemed necessary to mark the 
omissions by asterisks, but simply to make this statement in lieu 
thereof. As a letter-writer she was natural and versatile ; and could 
her effusions, sent to her absent friends, have been published entire, 
they would have been marked by the same easy flow of expression 
that gave such a charm to her conversation in the social circle. 

But there were many matters of interest to her correspondents, 
and especially so at the time of her writing them, that did not seem 
adapted to a wider circle of readers. As has been well said, it is a 
delicate matter to publish private letters without the consent of the 
writer. 

Chapter IV. is a collection of papers on different subjects, each 
of which had made such an impression upon her mind, that she 
thought it worthy of record. The last four of these papers are de- 
scriptions of death-bed scenes, to three of which she was a witness 
and for all four of the deceased she was, in the Christian acceptation of 
the word, a mourner. With the exceptions of these obituaries, there 
was no personality requiring omission or abridgement in this chapter. 

Chapter V. consists of metrical effusions, written at different 
periods of her life, but all of them between her twenty-first and her 
sixtieth year. Her fancy was lively, her expression free, and her love 
of nature as genuine, as it seemed ardent. Of the standard poets it 
would appear that Cowper was her favorite. In her appreciation of 
poetry, as in other matters, she was too sincere to affect admiration 
for anything merely because it was conventional. 

In the Appendix will be found a number of miscellaneous items, 
that are directly or indirectly connected with the life of the subject ; 
and on account of this connection it seemed fitting to give them a 
place. Some of these have come to hand while the work was going 
through the press. 

In conclusion, the editor would acknowledge his indebtedness to 
friends who have rendered valuable assistance in the preparation, the 
pub/ieation and the distribution of the work. 

Hugh Foulke. 

Philadelphia, Penna., Second Month 28th, 1893. 



MEMORIAL 

OF 

MARY S. LIPPINCOTT. 



A Memorial of Chester Monthly Meeting, New Jersey, 
concerning our deceased friend, Mary S. LippincoTT. 

Under a sense of the loss that we have sustained 
by the death of this dear and valued Friend, we feel it 
right to make a brief record of her life, and of her re- 
ligious experience, for the benefit of survivors, desiring 
that it may serve as an incentive, especially to those who 
are in the morning of life, to walk in the path of obedi- 
ence to manifested duty, and to profit by the example of 
one, who by an early dedication of all her faculties, ex- 
perienced preservation from evil, strength in weakness, 
and comfort in seasons of outward trial. 

Mary S. Lippincott, daughter of Anthony and Jane 
S. Hallowell, was born on the twenty-third day of the 
Sixth Month, in the year 1801, in Cheltenham Township, 
Montgomery County, Pennsylvania, and was a birthright 
member of the religious Society of Friends. She was 
endowed with a vigorous intellect, and retentive memory, 



10 Memorial of 

and before she had concluded her tenth }^ear, had read 
aloud to her grandfather, Benjamin Shoemaker, the Bible, 
as well as the Journal of George Fox, and portions of 
other Friends' works. 

The influence of this early course of reading was 
plainly manifest throughout her life, as she was both 
ready and accurate in her quotations from the Scriptures, 
and familiar with the writings of early Friends. 

Her school education was received at day schools at 
Hatboro and Abington, and at boarding-schools at West- 
town in Pennsylvania, and at Fair Hill in Maryland. 
When about twenty-one years of age, she engaged in 
teaching, a work for which she seemed to be fitted, both 
by nature and training, and which was not finally aban- 
doned until she was in her eightieth year. She taught at 
Cheltenham, Abington and Westtown, in Pennsylvania ; 
at Fair Hill, in Maryland ; at Alexandria, in Virginia ; 
and at Rensselaerville, in New York. 

In 1829, she was married to Isaac Lippincott, a mem- 
ber of Chester Monthly Meeting, New Jersejr, and removed 
to reside with him, becoming a member of the same meet- 
ing, and so continuing until her death. In 1842, she 
and her husband, established the Moorestown Boarding 
School for Girls, which was continued under her super- 
vision for a period of thirty-eight 3'ears. The influence 
for good which went out from this institution has been 
widely felt. Her pupils not only received thorough in- 
struction in the ordinary branches of a school education, 
but their moral and spiritual being was carefully nur- 



Mary S. Lippincott. 11 

hired, and the training there received was of priceless 
value in after life. In the matter of school and family 
discipline it may truly be said that she " ruled with 
meekness, — they obeyed with joy " — and her authority 
"was but the graver countenance of love." In the edu- 
cation of young women whose means were limited she 
was almost over-generous, and in this and in other acts 
of beneficence she did much that was only known to her- 
self and to those whom she benefited. She was ever 
desirous that an increased liberality might prevail in the 
Society for the advancement of its schools, and encour- 
aged Friends to improve those the}' had, and to use their 
best endeavors in the establishment of others. 

It would appear from the memoranda, that she was 
early brought under the preparing Hand for service in 
her Master's vineyard. She records that while a school 
girl, engaged in some household duties, being in a serious 
state of mind, her spiritual ear was saluted with the 
language: "Simon, son of Jonas, lovest thou me?" 
"Feed my sheep." This salutation seemed to foretell 
the labor that would be required of her, and she alludes 
to its fulfilment many years afterwards. 

When about twenty-two years of age, and for some 
time subsequently, she passed through many deep bap- 
tisms ; of these she has left abundant notes. In the early 
part of the year 1824, she records a fervent prayer, a part 
of which is as follows : "Be pleased, O righteous Father! 
to look down with pity on a poor frail mortal of the dust, 
whose heart is ready to sink, and who is almost over- 



12 Memorial of 

whelmed. Suffer me not to perish, but keep me, I be- 
seech Thee, and suffer me to abide under the shadow of 
Thy wing. Cleanse me, purify me, try me, prove me, and 
spare not the rod, till all within me that is offensive in 
Thy sight, be purged away. Refine me, and baptize me 
again and again, if consistent with Tfty holy will. Create 
in me a clean heart, and renew a right spirit within me. 
Teach me humility, yea keep me down in the valley, that 
I may not think much of myself. Lead me wheresoever 
Thou desirest me to go, and make me willing to bow in 
full submission to Thy holy presence." 

She was then in the twenty-third year of her age, 
and feeling deeply exercised, she writes that she was not 
at liberty to unburden her mind to any human being, 
but adds : "I believe it best for me to be sober in all my 
movements, quiet and retired, that I may be more watch- 
ful over myself. 1 ' The time for her to be cheerful had 
not yet come, and those who tried to anticipate it, were 
strangers to her inward struggles. 

She lived in the desire to do good, and as she grew 
older, became convinced that it was obedience to mani- 
festations from the Most High that qualified for good 
works, — even the Grace of God that maketh known the 
Divine will to his children, and giveth ability to per- 
form it. 

As she followed her convictions, she was earh^ led 
to exhort others with much tenderness, to a dependence 
on the same Divine Comforter, expressing the assurance 
that under its guidance every human effort, however 



Mary S. Lippiqcott. 13 

small, when made with a sincere desire to do good, is 
acceptable with the Father. By abiding in humility, 
and keeping a strict watch over herself, in conduct, 
conversation, and thoughts, she gradually experienced 
a growth in grace, and in her ministerial gift. In her 
twenty-ninth year, with the full unity of her meeting, 
her gift in the ministry was acknowledged and approved. 

In the year 1845 she was appointed Clerk of the 
Yearly Meeting of Women Friends held in Philadelphia, 
and by successive appointments, filled that position until 
1867. For this service she had unusual qualifications, 
— executive ability, great forbearance, and an inward cri- 
terion for determining the true sense of the meeting, — 
all combined with readiness and felicit} T of expression. 
While faithfully serving the meeting as Clerk, she was 
careful not to neglect her individual exercises. Some- 
times she would find it necessary to lay down her pen, 
get into the quiet, and find what she had to do. After 
a short season of waiting, she would arise, deliver her 
message with clearness and power, and then proceed 
with the business of the meeting. 

A concern opened by our Friend at the close of a 
First-day morning meeting, was the origin of the First- 
day school at Moorestown, which was one of the first 
within the limits of Philadelphia Yearly Meeting. She 
entered upon this important work with her usual earnest- 
ness, and was Superintendent of the school for many 
years. Here, as in her ministry, she did not feel called 
to sound the note of controversial doctrine, but her teach- 



14 Menprial of 

ing was according to the new commandment given by 
Jesus, — " That ye love one another." The testimonies 
embraced in our first and second Queries, were to her, 
vital realities, and her steadfast endeavor to maintain 
them has been of lasting benefit. 

Her heart ever went out in sympathy to those in 
distress, affliction, or bereavement, and amid her many 
engrossing cares and labors she was never too busy, or 
too weary, to listen to their troubles, to give words of 
advice, encouragement or consolation, and to the extent 
of her ability, share their burden. 

In her middle and later life, she was a bright exam- 
ple of the happiness to be experienced from a full sur- 
render, and an early dedication of heart. In the social 
circle she was a general' favorite, her animated and in- 
teresting conversation being instructive and enlivening, 
both to the young and the old. 

About eight years before her death, she and her two 
daughters removed to Camden, New Jersey, where, so 
long as her health permitted, she continued to attend 
meetings. 

Her life as to the outward was a checkered one, and 
many were her trials and bereavements. Her aged 
mother, who died in 1847, w r as the object of her tender 
care, and her faithful ministrations to promote the com- 
fort of this revered parent, are worthy of record, as well 
as imitation. The loss of her husband, in 1858, was 
keenly felt. As partners in life they had been conge- 
nial and closely linked, and as an elder he had sympa- 



Mary S. Lippincott. 15 

thized and traveled with her in her religions exercises. 
Of five [six] children, only one survived her. 

Bnt throughout all she was sustained by an unfal- 
tering trust. One of her pupils gives expression to the 
feelings of many, when she says : "I have marvelled at 
her cheerfulness, her courage, her patience, and her un- 
wavering faith in the goodness and protecting care of 
her Heavenly Father." 

During her last illness, which she bore with great 
fortitude, she said to her friends that her sufferings 
were doubtless permitted for a wise, though unseen pur- 
pose, and was comforted with the firm belief that she 
would be accepted. That " more sure word of prophecy" 
to which she early gave heed, and which had been fol- 
lowed by the dawning of the day and the arising of the 
day-star in her heart, had been her faith through life ; 
and when her sun was about to go down in brightness, 
she desired that the young might have their attention 
called to this same more sure Word. 

With full faith in the promise of a happy eternity, 
she made a peaceful close on the 18th of the Fourth 
Month, 1888, and on the 21st of the same her remains 
were interred in Friends' burial ground at Moorestown. 

She was aged nearly eighty-seven years, sixty of 
which she had been a faithful and acceptable minister 
of the Gospel. 



16 Merriorial of 

Read and approved in Chester Monthly Meeting of 
Friends, held at Moorestown, N. J., Third Month 7th, 
1889, and directed to be forwarded to the Quarterly 
Meeting. 

John M. Lippincott, ] r , * 
Rachel A. Collins, I 



Read and approved in Haddonfield Quarterly Meet- 
ing of Friends, held at Moorestown, N. J., Third Month 
7th, 1889, and directed to be forwarded to the Repre- 
sentative Committee or Meeting for Sufferings. 

Clayton Conrow, ( clerks 
Elizabeth L. Jessup, I 



LIKK and LETTERS 

OF 

MARY S. LIPPINCOTT. 



CHAPTER I. 

A BRIEF ACCOUNT OF HER LIFE. 

Mary S. Hallowell was the daughter of Anthony 
and Jane Hallowell, and was born in Cheltenham Town- 
ship, Montgomery County, Pennsylvania, on the 23rd 
of Sixth Month, 1801. Her parents being members of 
the religious Society of Friends, she had a birthright 
therein, and her name was so recorded on the books of 
Abington Monthly Meeting. 

Her grandparents were William and Mary [Wil- 
liams] Hallowell, and Benjamin and Mary [Comly] 
Shoemaker. She was the fifth and youngest child, and 
only daughter of the family. Her name combines those 
of her two grandmothers, Mary Shoemaker Hallowell. 

Her brothers were James S., Benjamin (who died in 
infancy,) Joseph, and Benjamin. 

The place of her birth was the homestead of her 
grandfather Shoemaker ; and the house which stood 
until quite recently, was near the corner of York Road 
and Cheltenham Avenue. The latter is sometimes 



18 Life and Letters of 

called Clielteu Avenue, and was formerly known as 
" Graveyard Lane.'" It took its early name from a small 
enclosure, which was commonly called " The Shoemaker 
Buying Ground, 1 ' though more properly designated as 
Cheltenham Friends 1 Burial Ground, It is situated on 
Cheltenham Avenue, a short distance above where Ben- 
jamin Shoemaker's buildiugs stood, and on the opposite 
side of the road. It has recently been ascertained that 
forty-five persons named Shoemaker, besides the many 
descendants of the family having other names, have 
been interred in this ground. 

The place is in close proximity to the village of 
Ogontz, which was, until quite recently, called Shoe- 
makertown, as most of the prominent residents, and 
nearly all the property owners, were named Shoemaker. 

So far as we can learn, they were (nearly, if not 
quite all) members of the Society of Friends, and were 
persons of good repute; being honest, industrious, thrifty, 
benevolent, and some of them — for that time — quite well 
educated. 

Their ancestor, George Shoemaker, came with his 
family from Kreisheim, near Heidelburg, in the Palati- 
nate, to England. From London the}' embarked for 
Pennsylvania, in the ship Jefferies, Thomas Arnold, 
master. On the passage the small-pox broke out, and 
many of the passengers died, among the number being 
George Shoemaker. His family, consisting of a wife 
and seven children, were thus left to establish themselves, 
and found a home in the New World. Thev landed at 



Mary S. Lippincott. 19 

Chester, Pennsylvania, in the early part of the year 
1686, and came up to Germantown, now a part of the 
city of Philadelphia. 

The eldest son, George Shoemaker, Jr., was about 
twenty-three years old, and being a steady, capable 
young man, as well as a dutiful son, he assisted his 
mother in the care of the younger children. 

About eight years after their arrival in America, 
George married Sarah Wall, the granddaughter and 
only descendant of Richard Wall, an English Friend 
who had settled in Cheltenham. 

It would appear from the records that Richard took 
much interest in the maintenance of Cheltenham Friends' 
Meeting [which afterwards became Abington Meeting], 
and in his will he bequeathed to said meeting the burial 
ground already referred to. 

It was in the early part of the year 1S01 that Jane 
Hallowell and her two sons, James and Benjamin, came 
to live with her father. The other son, Joseph, went to 
live with an uncle named Brumfield, at Columbia, Penn- 
sylvania. 

Benjamin Shoemaker was about seventy-four years 
of age, and had been a widower nine years, when his 
daughter and her boys came to live with him, and to add 
so much to the comfort and enjoyment of his home. 
After the birth of Mary he had an added source of joy 
to cheer him in his declining years. 

As Benjamin was a farmer, and had the work of 
planting and gathering the crops carried on by hired 



2,0 Life and Letters of 

laborers, his daughter was much occupied with house- 
hold duties, such as providing for the men, attending to 
the dairy, spinning, &c. From the memoranda that we 
have of the domestic arrangements, it would appear that 
Benjamin passed much of his time in his arm-chair, 
with his little granddaughter near him. Which was 
the entertainer, and which the entertained, we need not 
inquire, for we may suppose that the care was reciprocal 
and the enjoyment mutual. He taught her to knit, to 
spin, and most probably to read, as there is no mention 
made of her having attended any school until after his 
death ; but we are informed that she had read aloud to 
him the whole of the Bible, and of George Fox's Jour- 
nal. While these two books had been read in their 
entirety, portions of others had also received attention ; 
but there is no account of anything light or frivolous — 
only the Holy Scriptures and the writings of Friends 
being chosen. 

But the time was approaching when this close com- 
panionship must cease ; when the affectionate grand- 
parent and his devoted little attendant must be separated, 
he going to his long home, and she mourning on her 
way for the loss of one whom she had revered, trusted 
and loved. 

Benjamin Shoemaker died on the 16th of Third 
Month, 1811, aged eighty-four years. His death lacked 
but one day of being eighteen years after that of his wife. 
Of their fourteen children twelve had lived to adult age, 



Mary S. Lippincott. 21 

but only three survived their father. These three were 
Nathan, Comly, and Jane. 

On the day following his death, the remains of 
Benjamin Shoemaker were interred in the Cheltenham 
Friends' Burial Ground, near which he had lived and 
died. 

Of the Hallowell, Williams, and Comly ancestors, 
we are not so fully informed, but it appears that they, 
also, were Friends, and that Mary Williams (grand- 
mother of M. S. L.) was a descendant of George Shoe- 
maker, Jr., though not of his first wife Sarah, but of his 
second, who was named Katharine. 

About two years before the decease of her father, 
Jane Hallowell had passed through a sore affliction in 
the death of her son Joseph. Though only about twelve 
years of age, he assisted in the store of his uncle, with 
whom he lived. One evening, while he was weighing 
some gunpowder for a customer, two boys who were in 
the store were playing, and when one threw something 
at the other, a spark, either from a candle or from a 
cigar, fell into the powder and caused a terrific explosion, 
after which Joseph was found in the cellar, the floor 
under him having given away. When found he was 
unconscious , but soon after became sensible, and told 
the family how the accident had occurred. He lived 
until next morning in great agony, but fully aware of 
his situation, and made some remarks suitable for one 
of his age, and his innocent life. His mother was ex- 
pecting him home on his first visit, and when the sad 



22 Life and Letters of 

tidings of his death came, her inward grief was no doubt 
very great. Her son Benjamin, in his " Autobiogra- 
phy," says, "All the reference mother ever made to it 
afterwards, was to say, ' Poor Joseph,' and weep." 

Soon after the death of Benjamin Shoemaker, his 
estate was settled by selling the homestead, and thus 
the family had to be broken up. It now consisted of 
Jane Hallowell and her two children, Benjamin and 
Mary ; the eldest son, James, having previously gone 
into the store and the family of his uncle William Hal- 
lowell, in Philadelphia. Jane and her daughter went to 
her uncle, Samuel Shoemaker's, near Hatboro, Mont- 
gomery County, Penna. Both mother and daughter 
found it to be a pleasant home, and as it was near the 
Lollar Academy, Mary was entered as a pupil in that 
institution. It was under Presbyterian management, 
and was in high repute for being a good school. 

Benjamin went to live with his uncle, Comly Shoe- 
maker and wife, on their farm, called Pleasant Valley, 
adjacent to the old homestead. 

Subsequently, Jane Hallowell and her daughter went 
to live with their relative George Williams, whose home 
being near Abington Meeting House, was probably a 
resort for traveling Friends. While there, most likely, 
Mary was a pupil in the Abington Friends' School. 

In 1 8 19, after she had entered her nineteenth year, 
she went to Westtown Boarding School, in Chester 
County, Pennsylvania, and continued there as a pupil 
about one 3 r ear. 



Mary S. Lippiqcott. 23 

In Ninth Month, 1820, came another family afflic- 
tion. Her brother James died, after a brief but very 
distressing illness, leaving a widow and one child. In 
a few days after the funeral, Mary went with her only 
surviving brother, Benjamin, to Friends' Boarding School 
at Fair Hill, near Sandy Spring, Maryland; Benjamin 
resuming his duties as teacher in that Institution, and 
Mary entering it as a pupil. 

In the early part of the year 1823 we find her teach- 
ing a family school in Cheltenham, near the place of 
her birth. While thus occupied, she was visited by 
members of the Westtown Committee, and invited to 
take the position made vacant by the absence of Sybella 
Kmbree, who had gone to Europe in consequence of her 
failing health. Ann Mifflin, who was temporarily taking 
the place of Sybella, was desirous of being relieved of 
her duties at the earliest date practicable ; and as she 
was one of the Yearly Meeting's Committee having 
charge of the School, she and another member of the 
Committee went to Cheltenham, and made the proposi- 
tion to Mary. It was favorably received. The appoint- 
ment was accepted, and in less than a week from that 
time Mary was regularly installed, and was performing 
the duties of her new position. She began on the 8th of 
Second Month, 1823. 

It was during her sojourn at Westtown that she 
became acquainted with John Mott, who subsequently 
established a boarding school for girls, at Rensselaerville, 



24 Life and Letters of 

New York, and secured the services of Mary S. Hallo- 
well as teacher. 

In less than a year from the date of her entering 
upon her duties as teacher at Westtown, we find the 
first record in her Diary, from which it will appear that 
she was laboring under deep religious exercise. The 
baptisms through which she passed to prepare her for 
the work of the ministry, were mortifying to the flesh, 
as well as purifying to the spirit ; and' during all this 
trying period she was obliged to respond to the daily 
call of routine duties in the school, and to associate with 
the members of that large family during the intervals 
intended for social mingling. Then, as now, there were 
those who failed to comprehend why a young person 
should be so serious as to appear gloomy ; so they urged 
her to be cheerful. No doubt their motive was good, 
but the advice alone was evidence that they were stran- 
gers to the experience through which she was passing. 
But with all the care that she found necessary to exercise 
in the social circle (for she was naturally of a lively 
disposition, and prone to freedom of speech), her sur- 
roundings, taking all the conditions into account, were 
probably about the most favorable that she could have 
had for her advancement in spiritual things, and as a 
preparation for her life-work in the training of young 
women. 

The meetings for worship were often favored sea- 
sons, being attended by solid Friends who were members 
of the Committee, and also by Gospel messengers from 



Mary S. Lippincott. 25 

different parts of this country and from Great Britain, 
who were traveling on religious visits. In the general 
arrangement of the school and of the household, there 
was maintained a conservative strictness that taught the 
young people by example, as well as by precept, the 
importance of a steadfast adherence to the practices of 
Friends. This teaching was not lost on the pupils, but 
was conducive to the formation of such habits in thought 
and discipline as to regulate their conduct while in the 
institution, and to clothe them with a protective armor 
after leaving its fostering care. 

In the case of Mary S. Hallowell, this training 
proved to be of lasting benefit, and its effects were mani- 
fest wherever she had an opportunity and felt it right 
to exercise an influence over young people. 

The exact time of her first appearance in the ministry 
cannot be given, but it was probably during the latter 
part of her sojourn at Westtown, or soon after leaving 
that Institution. 

She went to Rensselaerville in 1826 or 1827, an d 
remained there until about the time of her marriage. 

In the year 1829 sne was married to Isaac Lippincott, 
of Chesterville, Burlington County, New Jersey. The 
marriage was accomplished in Friends' Meeting House 
at Abington, and Mary, herself, wrote the certificate. 
The company was entertained at the residence of her 
uncle, Comly Shoemaker, this being her home when not 
at boarding-schools. 

Soon after their marriage, her husband took her to 



26 Life and Letters of 

his home, where she entered upon the new duties of 
house-keeping and suppling the place of mother to his 
two children — a daughter of sixteen and a son of twelve 
years. 

Although all three of the positions — wife, mother 
and housekeeper — were new to her, yet she discharged 
the duties of each and all of them with so much fidelity 
as to secure the confidence and win the affection of all 
the members of the household. The union between 
her husband and herself was a true marriage, and her 
affection for his children, being fully reciprocated, proved 
to be lasting as life. 

Notwithstanding the formation of these new bonds 
of faith and affection, she did not neglect or withhold 
the service called for in the assemblies of the people, 
but continued to exercise her gift, to the edification of 
her hearers, and as we may infer, to the peace of her 
own mind. When in her twenty-ninth year her gift 
was acknowledged, and her name was recorded as an 
approved minister of Chester Monthly, and Haddonfield 
Quarterly Meetings. The expressed unity with this 
procedure was an evidence that her ministry was not 
only approved by the elders, but that it was also accepta- 
ble to the other members of the meeting. 

She frequently performed visits in Gospel love, 
within the limits of her own, and sometimes of other 
Yearly Meetings, and the openness on the part of Friends 
in the different localities, to receive her, was an evidence 



Mary S. Lippincott. 27 

that she was in the line of her duty when on these mis- 
sions. 

To Isaac and Mary S. Lippincott were born four 
sons and two daughters. The sons all died young (the 
eldest of them being about eight years old), but the 
daughters survived their father ; and one of them, Mar- 
garet W. Lippincott, still lives. 

Of Isaac's two older children, the daughter, Phebe 
W., lived to an advanced age, and looked upon several 
of her great-grandchildren. Her husband was Granville 
S. Woolman, M. D., whom she survived nearly twenty 
years. The son, Daniel P. Lippincott, died soon after 
his marriage. His only child, Daniel P. Lippincott 
(born after the father's death), resided in St. Louis, Mis- 
souri, and was much esteemed for his ability, energy and 
many good qualities. He died on the 7th of Eleventh 
Month, 1892, in the forty-eighth year of his age, leaving 
a widow and two sons. The elder of these sons, now a 
young man, is named Isaac Lippincott. The interest 
that Mary S. Lippincott felt in Daniel and his family, 
and the fondness for the great-grandson who bears the 
name of her husband, is abundantly manifest in her 
letters. There is not to be found in all her writings, 
more convincing proof of her tenderness and her strong 
affection, than we find in some of the letters (not made 
public) relative to "little Isaac." 

Daniel and his sons were the only descendants of 
her husband, bearing the name of Lippincott ; and she 
alludes to this fact in one of her letters to Daniel. She 



28 Life and Letters of 

expressed at different times a desire to visit them in 
their own home ; but the distance between St. Louis and 
Camden, and her feebleness of body, prevented her from 
accomplishing what would have afforded her so much 
gratification. 

Daniel's marriage was very satisfactory to her, and 
his wife and boys had, like himself, a firm hold on her 
affections ; and her solicitude for their -welfare was un- 
mistakable ; as may be found from her numerous mes- 
sages of loving interest to those whom she had not seen. 

About two years before her death, Daniel brought 
all of his family with him, and made her a visit in her 
own home. This event was among the joys of her old 
age ; and the remembrance of it was a source of much 
comfort to her. 

When Isaac Lippincott passed away, he had three 
daughters living, but no son. His daughter Jane sur- 
vived her father, but not her mother. She died on the 
2 1 st of Second Month, 1SS5. These famity bereavements 
are feelingly alluded to in the Diary, and in some of the 
letters of Mary S. Lippincott. 

In the Spring of 1843, our Friend, accompanied by her 
husband, attended New York Yearly Meeting, and soon 
after their return to their'home, she passed through an- 
other season of bereavement, occasioned by the death of 
her beloved uncle (who had been like a father to her), 
Comly Shoemaker. He died of a short illness, and left, 
as a lasting memorial, the savor of a good name. He was 
one who liked to help others, and who was noted for his 



Mary S. Lippincott. 29 

kindness to all that came within the range of his oppor- 
tunity, and most especially to orphans. His estimate 
of himself, and of his own merits, was very low, so that 
he might well have been called one of the " poor in 
spirit." His funeral was an occasion of solemn interest, 
many, no doubt, feeling that they had lost a friend. 
The remains were interred in the Cheltenham grave- 
yard, where those of his parents and a large family of 
their children lay. His widow, Sarah Shoemaker, sur- 
vived him about two years. They had no children. 

In 1842, Isaac Ljppincott and family moved into 
Moorestown — a few miles distant from their former 
home — and established a boarding school for girls and 
young women. Mary's great energy and untiring in- 
dustry were brought to bear upon this enterprise, so 
that it soon grew into favor among Friends ; being re- 
garded — as it deserved to be — as a valuable auxiliary to 
the educational work going on in the Society. With 
a thorough scholastic training in the useful branches 
of a good, plain education, it combined the influences 
of a concerned Friends' home. Example went directly 
along with precept, and the young women soon discov- 
ered that " Aunt Mary " was not only the executive 
manager of a large institution, but that she was also 
a wise counselor, and a spiritual adviser who could 
warn them of approaching danger, and could direct 
their attention to the inward monitor that would prove 
to them a source of comfort or of distress, according as 
they obeyed or disobeyed its teachings. Then, too, she 



30 Life and Letters of 

was so loving and tender; so motherly in her inter- 
course with them, that the} 7 could not feel other than 
love for her, and a desire to comply with her wishes. 

" Where kindness on her part who ruled the whole 
Begat a tranquil confidence in all, 
And all were swift to follow whom all loved." 

Being ready of discernment in natural things, and 
(after the baptism that she passed through in early life) 
having an eye that had been spiritually anointed, she 
was qualified to administer the Word in season which, in 
many cases, probably proved to be as " bread cast upon 
the waters." The number of women who are now faithful 
supporters of their home meetings, and who are useful 
in the transaction of the business in Philadelphia Yearly 
Meeting — who were at one time members of her family 
— furnishes us with a living testimony to the good re- 
sults of her example and her precepts in the training 
of young Friends. 

When nearly four-score years of age, she accom- 
panied one of her ex-pupils, an approved minister, on 
a visit of religious concern to the men's branch of Phila- 
delphia Yearly Meeting. The Friend was evidently 
laboring under a great weight of exercise, which she 
was favored to spread before the meeting in plain terms, 
and iu a solemn and impressive manner. Soon after 
this young minister had taken her seat, Mary arose 
and expressed her full unity with the " dear sister," 
and the sense of duty which she had felt to accompany 
her on this visit, 



Mary S. Lippincotl. 31 

It seemed to be just what was needed to supple- 
ment and to confirm the former searching testimony. 

When the women Friends withdrew there was a 
solemn covering over the men's meeting. 

In the year 1845, Mary S. Lippincott was appointed 
Clerk of the women's branch of Philadelphia Yearly 
Meeting, and for twenty-two consecutive years she filled 
[by reappointments] this responsible position, with so 
much propriety as to give satisfaction to her friends, and 
dignity to the large assembly. 

She was so modest in regard to this appointment, 
and the very efficient service which she rendered to the 
meeting, that in her writings we find but little mention 
made of it ; but the memories of the older and middle- 
aged Friends retain some deep impressions of the effects 
produced upon that large body, by her individuality, 
her quick perceptions, and her close attention to inward 
exercises. 

Upon one occasion, when a stirring appeal had been 
made to the young women, urging them to participate 
in the transaction of the business- — for the reason that 
their perceptions were keener, and their judgment was 
better, than was the case with the mothers and the 
grandmothers, who had been faithful in their day, but 
who now would better lay down the burden — the Clerk 
arose, and after a few words of encouragement to the 
young, expressing her appreciation of their interest in 
the proceedings of the meeting, she briefly related the 
Scriptural account of Israel when about to confer the 



32 Life aqd Letters of 

blessing upon his grandsons. Notwithstanding his 
great age, and the dimness of his outward sight, " he was 
not to be swerved from the true judgment, but, guiding 
his hands wittingly," he placed the right one upon the 
head of Bphraim. The allusion was so apt ; the intro- 
duction of it so concise ; and the spirit in which it was 
made, so kind, as to produce a good effect at the time of 
its utterance, and to leave, on the minds of some in the 
assembl}*-, an impression which memory has preserved 
through all the intervening years, and which is still 
fresh and vivid. 

In the year 1847 our Friend had to part with her 
beloved parent, over whom she had watched so tenderly, 
and who had been so appreciative of her ministrations 
of love. 

Jane Hallowell was one who had drunk deeply of 
the cup of affliction, but her last days were made as com- 
fortable for her, as the infirmities of age would permit. 
In Isaac Lippincott she found a devoted friend and kind 
son ; and the hearty co-operation of him and his wife in 
their endeavors to make " mother" comfortable, no doubt 
had its influence on the younger members of the family, 
who earl} 7 learned that " grandmother" was an object 
susceptible of their affection, and worth}- of their respect. 

In the early part of the year 1858, after a period of 
protracted and intense suffering, Isaac Lippincott was 
removed by death ; and the blank which Mary felt, as to 
things of this life — the aching void in her heart — is 
most pathetically alluded to in her Diary. After this 



Mary S. Lippincott. 33 

sad loss, the affairs of life seemed'to weigh more heavily 
upon her than they had ever done before, and she began 
to look toward some way of living that would be attended 
with less care, and that would leave her more at liberty 
for the performance of her visits of Gospel love. 

Still she continued at the head of her school during 
more than twent}' years of her widowhood. Her two 
faithful daughters remained with her, and did what they 
could to relieve her from the heavy burden which rested 
upon her. 

In her intercourse with her pupils, she practised 
candor as well as kindness ; being opposed to indirect or 
detective methods in the treatment or the discovery of 
cases requiring discipline. Whatever the pupils might 
do, the teacher, or caretaker, should always be sincere. 

This theory, which was based upon positive convic- 
tion, was consistently carried out in her practice, and 
confirmed by long experience. 

Her views on this subject were so clear and so de- 
cided, as to be well worthy of a place in some standard 
work on School Discipline. 

In Ninth Month, 1877, her brother Benjamin passed 
away ; his wife having preceded him about two years. Mary 
attended his funeral, and appeared in testimony upon the 
occasion. She seemed now to be about the last of her 
generation. Her other brothers had died when she was 
young, but Benjamin and she had gone hand in hand in 
their childhood, and so far as distant residences and other 
circumstances would permit, they had been in close 



34 Life and Letters of 

intimacy through life. * On some doctrinal points their 
views were dissimilar ; but these differences of opinion were 
not suffered to weaken the bond of affection which had 
united them in childhood, and which remained firm and 
bright until severed by death. 

His marriage had brought to her a sister whom 
she greatly esteemed and loved ; and between whom 
and herself, there were strong ties of congeniality, as 
well as of kinship and affection. 

Now, Benjamin and Margaret had both gone; and 
another much beloved sister-in-law, Amelia Shoemaker, 
had passed away some time before. Her brother-in-law, 
David Walton and his wife, lived so far away from her 
that she rarely got to see them ; a privation that she 
much regretted. David had made his home with her 
husband and herself during their early married life, and 
she liked to speak of those pleasant days. 

Nearly all of her first cousins were numbered with 
the dead, so that she could look only upon kindred of 
one, two, and three generations younger than herself. 

While she must have felt — as most old persons do 
feel — the strippedness of her situation, yet she kept up 
her intercourse with the young, and manifested her 
gratitude for their kind attentions. The interest ex- 
tended, not only to her daughters, and to the daughter 
and the grandchildren of her husband, but also to the 
nieces and nephews, on both sides. In one of her letters 
she speaks of the satisfaction that it gave her to visit 
the business establishment of some nephews in Phila- 



Mary S. Lippincott, 35 

delphia, and to see the three brothers, and several of 
their sons with them, all upright, industrious, and pros- 
perous. 

But her interest and affection were not limited to 
her kindred ; for they extended throughout the entire 
circle of her acquaintance ; and in a broader sense, we 
might well say, throughout the whole human family. 
She desired that all might do right, and thus be happy ; 
also that they might be outwardly comfortable, and 
might prosper, in the best sense of the word. 

When attending the Yearly Meeting in Philadel- 
phia, she made her home with her nephew and niece, 
Joshua and Elizabeth Lippincott, until the latter was 
removed by death ; and during the remaining years of 
her ability to attend the meeting, she was kindly cared 
for, while in the city, by her niece, Isabella Lippincott, 
who lived near the meeting-house. 

At these annual gatherings she met with many 
kindred spirits, who were not bound to her by family 
ties. It was a touching sight to behold, in the upper 
gallery, five approved ministers, all past four-score years 
of age, but bright in intellect, and truly alive in spirit. 
These five were Sarah Hunt, Deborah F. Wharton, 
Sarah Hoopes, Mary S. Lippincott and Catharine P. 
Foulke. Now they have all gone to their reward ; 
Mary having been the first to pass away, and Catharine 
the last. 

Notwithstanding the pressure of home cares, she 
was a worthy example of faithfulness in the regular 



36 Life arid Letters of 

attendance of the meeting to which she belonged, and 
when duty called her to other parts of the vineyard, she 
had the sympathy and the approval of her Friends at 
home, before engaging in the weight}' undertaking of 
pa}'ing a religious visit. 

With certificates thus obtained, she visited, at dif- 
ferent periods of her life, all the six Yearly Meetings 
which then belonged to our branch of the Society of 
Friends, and many — perhaps most — of the meetings 
composing them. In the year 1869 sne obtained a min- 
ute to visit the Quarterly and other meetings within the 
limits of her own Yearly Meeting. 

Soon after returning this minute she obtained one 
to visit the Southern Quarter ; also some neighboring 
Quarters ; and to attend and appoint meetings within 
their limits. In the performance of these two visits she 
was occupied more than four years ; and this labor, 
together with the attendance of Baltimore Yearl}' Meet- 
ing, in 1875, and New York in 1879, may be regarded 
as the evening offering of a devoted and faithful Gospel 
messenger. 

In the year 1880, after an existence of thirty-eight 
years, the school at Moorestown was discontinued, and 
in the early part of the year following, Alary and her 
two daughters removed to Camden, New Jersey. She 
speaks favorably of their new home, with its many 
comforts and conveniences, and so long as she was 
able, she was a faithful attender of Camden Meeting, 
but her right of membership in the Society of Friends, 



Mary S. Lippincott. 37 

remained in Chester Monthly Meeting, to which — and 
particularly to the Chester [Moorestown] branch of it, 
she was strongly attached by ties of association, of 
interest, and of affection. The impress left there by the 
seal of her ministry is still fresh on the minds of the 
elderly and middle-aged Friends. 

The last time, previous to her death, that the name 
of Mary S. Lippincott appears on the Monthly Meeting 
book, bears date of Fifth Month 8th, 1879, when she 
obtained a minute to attend New York Yearly Meeting. 

The last Yearly Meeting that she attended in Phila- 
delphia was in 1883. A year later she went to the one 
in New York, and during the intervals of the meeting 
she enjoyed social mingling at the house of her friend 
Jane Russell, whose kindness and tender care enabled 
her to pass the week comfortably, notwithstanding her 
feebleness of body. This was her last visit at any con- 
siderable distance from home. 

We now come to the closing period of a long and 
dedicated life. The last four years of her earthly jour- 
ney were years of pain to the weary body, but of tran- 
quillity to the mind ; for she was reaping the reward for 
obedience in having done the will of her Master, while 
she had the strength and ability to labor in his cause. 
She could now realize, in her own experience, the happi- 
ness of one, 

' ' Whose yesterdays look backward with a smile, 
Nor, like the Parthian, wound him as they fly." 

Nor did bodily imnrmities prevent her from enjoy- 



38 Life and Letters of 

ing the company of her friends, many of whom availed 
themselves of the opportunity to visit her at her home, 
when she was no longer able to go out on her wonted 
missions of religious or social duty. 

In some of her letters she speaks of the great kind- 
ness of her Camden neighbors, as well as of those friends 
and relatives from other places, who came to visit her. 
It was, no doubt, felt to be a privilege to be with her, 
as it was instructive to witness her enduring patience, 
her unclouded intellect, and her assurance of the in- 
heritance that awaited her, when done with time. 

The parting with her daughter Jane, was one of the 
close trials of her life, but she accepted it, as she had 
the loss of her other children, in a spirit of quiet resig- 
nation. 

Her letters now became fewer and more brief than 
had heretofore been the case, and the penmanship was 
greatly changed; but the same loving spirit is still there, 
and is as distinctly discernible as if we could behold her 
benevolent countenance, and hear the familiar sound of 
her voice. 

Now, as in her earlier days, her generosity flowed in 
many directions ; and her beneficence was limited only 
by her want of opportunity ; the will was still present, 
and these late letters evince the same desires that had 
attended her through life, to do or to say something that 
would contribute to the happiness of a fellow-being. 

As the months passed on, she grew weaker in body, 
but the mental faculties remained unimpaired. Her fail- 



Mary S. Lippincott. 39 

ing eyesight not permitting her to do as much reading 
as she had been accustomed to, she had much time for 
reflection, which enabled her to review her past life, and 
to think of the many valued friends whose society she 
had once enjoyed. Her love flowed freely toward those 
who were still in the body ; and of the others she cher- 
ished memories that were so precious as to afford her 
much comfort. 

During the last two years of her life she was a great 
sufferer ; and for about one year preceding her death she 
was unable to attend meeting. But even when under 
the pressure of physical pain, her mind was bright, and 
she was keenly alive to the interest of the Society of 
which she was a birthright member, and for the welfare 
of which she had labored so faithfully, while health and 
ability were afforded her. 

Being hopefully inclined, she could rejoice at all evi- 
dences of life ; while her quickened spiritual perceptions 
enabled her to discover weaknesses, and latent sources of 
danger that were invisible to the ordinary observer. 

Again and again did she refer to this subject — the 
prosperity of the Society of Friends — desiring the re- 
moval of all the hindering things, and the advancement 
of the cause of Truth. 

During her illness, and within a few weeks of her 
close, her fervent desires for the maintenance of our 
testimonies, were so impressively expressed, that the 
concern seemed like a legacy left to her survivors, for 
them to accept and to appropriate. 



40 Life and Letters of 

In early life she had entered into covenant with One 
in whom she fully trusted, and for the sake of whose 
guidance she was, after a hard struggle, made willing to 
part with all that stood in her way. This One had car- 
ried her over many difficulties, had sustained her under 
close trials," and He was now her firm support in days 
and hours of great extremity. 

Having done her work as she went along through 
life, and having left the messages of concern which she 
had felt during her illness ; there was nothing remaining 
for her to do, but trustingly to lean upon the arm of her 
Supporter, and patiently abide the time for her release. 

On the morning of her departure, she said to her at- 
tendant : "I want to see the light ; the light of day. I 
want to see the dawning of the day." 

This desire seemed to be typical of that other dawn, 
which— as we reverently trust — her spiritual vision was 
soon to behold. 

She passed away in the early morning of Fourth 
Month 18th, 1888, lacking but sixty-six days of being 
eighty-seven years old. 

Her funeral, which was large, was an occasion of 
solemn interest to those who attended it ; while many 
who were not present could share in the feeling that a 
mother in our Israel had passed away. 

Her remains were interred near those of her hus- 
band, and their children, in Friends' Burial Ground, at 
Moorestown, New Jersey. 

This being " the end of earth," we must take leave 



Mary S. Lippincott. 41 

of our subject; which we do with an affectionate regard 
for her memory, and a firm belief that she is now reap- 
ing the reward of the righteous, in the realms of beatific 
felicity. 

" When the good man yields his breath, 
(For the good man never dies,) 
Bright beyond the gulf of death, 
Lo ! the Land of Promise lies." 

But where the account of her outward life ends, 
that of herself really begins : for " Being dead she yet 
speaketh." 



CHAPTER II. 

HER DIARY — 1823 TO 1875. 
PART I- 

Twelfth Month 8th, 1823.— This evening W. Flanner 
had an appointed meeting here. I felt poor and stripped 
before and after it ; but during the time we were assem- 
bled, I felt that the love of the Divine Shepherd was 
towards us. W. handed forth some seasonable and in- 
structive advice — may it never be forgotten ! How often 
is my soul bowed down with grief, and not able to find 
relief — Oh, that it might be stayed upon its God ! 

10th. — My mind was deeply exercised, under an ap- 
prehension of having withheld counsel to one, which 
might have kept her from the folly she engaged in. Oh ! 
how I mourned, and cried unto the Lord in my agony, 



42 Life and Letters of 

" Have mercy upon us ! " My tenderest feelings were 
pierced as with a sharp arrow — may I humbly seek for- 
giveness. How often do I feel condemnation and woe ; 
when shall I become willing to submit entirely to the 
Cross, and know a dying daily, yea, and hourly ? I shall 
never find peace till my will is slain ; but the carnal part 
in me is continually striving to wage war with the spir- 
itual — with the Lamb. Oh ! that strength may be given 
me to overcome the wicked one. Oh ! most adorable 
Father ! strengthen me to resist temptations ; chastise 
me, but not as I deserve, lest I be consumed ; try me, 
prove me, and make me willing to bow and say : " Thy 
will be done," in me, " as in Heaven." 

nth. — By reason of my inactivity and wandering 
thoughts, I became burdened, and found the seed was 
suffering. I sat meeting in distress, and thought I had 
gotten to a place where two ways met, and that I had 
not strength nor confidence in myself, sufficient to pur- 
sue the right way ; and I felt if I should take the other, 
as though the angel of God was waiting with his sword, 
to cut me asunder. I wept, and knew not what to do ; I 
looked for my Beloved, but I found Him not. Where is 
my Beloved gone ; I seek Him, but He cannot be found. 
I am as one destitute and forsaken — bowed down with 
grief, and none to unbosom it unto ; my flesh waxeth old, 
as a garment, and ni}- bones ache ; my sighs come in the 
morning and continue until the evening ; sleep flees 
from my eyelids, so that I know not my former rest. 
Oh ! that I were old, for then should I have hope that I 



Mary S. Lippincott. 4-3 

should return to the dust from whence I came — there 
should I hope to rest from all my troubles. Were I 
worthy to live, or had I hope of better days, then I could 
look forward with a ray of comfort ; but my heart is too 
hard to yield to the will of my Heavenly Father, so that 
I am afraid that I shall fall a victim to the second death. 
Oh ! that I had faith, for then would I pray, but I almost 
despond, knowing my poverty and weakness ; poor in- 
deed am I, hardly worthy to raise my eyes towards 
Heaven, yet am ready to put up my feeble petitions to 
the Most High. I abhor myself, " why hast Thou set me 
as a mark against Thee, so that I am become a burden to 
myself." I can feel with David, when in his agony he 
cried out, " My God, my God, why hast thou forsaken 
me ? " When wilt thou return, O Lord, and enlighten 
my countenance ; when wilt thou break me to pieces, and 
form me into a vessel for usefulness in thy house. Make 
me willing, I beseech Thee, O Father ! to give up every- 
thing, and with obedience, give glory to Thee in the high- 
est, then shall I know "peace on earth and good- will to 
men!" 

27th. — This day, for a little time, my spirits were 
animated, and caused me to say that which has been a 
source of grief unto me, and has made me work for re- 
pentance. Oh ! that I might be more watchful, that I may 
not at any time give way to levity for a moment. When 
shall I be able to trust myself in company, without fear- 
ing to enter into conversation lest I say too much, or 
something that will cause grief? 



44 Life and Letters of 

28th. — My soul was deeply bowed in awful reverence 
before Him whose frown is terrible as the roaring and 
boisterous ocean. I passed an almost sleepless night, on 
account of what took place yesterday. I went to meeting, 
but sat as in a dry and sandy desert, mourning, but 
could not weep, till our Friend, William Flanner arose, 
and in the true life spoke at considerable length ; part 
of his testimony touching the place in my heart which 
was under suffering, melting me into tears, so that I felt 
a confidence there was a possibility of returning and 
finding forgiveness. After meeting, I took my book, 
but felt restrained from reading, could not suppress my 
tears ; when W. Flanner took me by the hand, and af- 
fectionately pressing it, said — "What art thou learning? 
Learning to preach ?" This was too close a question for 
me to answer, and therefore I wept as he pressed my 
hand, and gently added, " Thou canst not learn it from 
the Good Book, but only from the Master. It will be 
made easy to thee. I love the flock wherever I meet 
with them," &c. I felt tendered all day, and found tears 
relieving. Oh ! that I may lay my foundation sure, so 
that it cannot be shaken ; that I may be found faithful ! 
But Oh ! this heart, when will it become obedient ; when 
shall I be able to bow and say with sincere heart, "Lord, 
not my will, but thine be done in all things." I commit 
myself to thy care, and in Thee is centered all my hope. 
Enable me, I beseech Thee, to give thanks to Thee 
always, and let the praise be thine forever. Amen ! 

29th, 30th, and 31st. — My spirit mourned during 



Mary S. Lippincott. 45 

those three days almost continually ; and it seemed as 
though all the life in me was under suffering. I be- 
sought the Lord to be with me, and direct my steps, and 
praised be his name, He heard my cry, and permitted 
me to feel, at times, that I was not forgotten. I earnestly 
craved that the next day I might be favored to begin 
anew my journey and my life, and find Him to be my 
Alpha and Omega ; also, that He would enable me to sit 
Monthly Meeting in a gathered state, and to feel with 
Friends while there. I lay down to rest, with my mind 
turned inward, and endeavored to keep it directed to the 
Light ; and after some meditation and reflection, sank 
into the arms of sleep. So ended the year. 

First Month ist, 1824. — Endeavored to have my eye 
single and directed to the Fountain of Life, that I might 
renew my covenants and my diligence. Found a little 
trial at meeting, the enemy striving to ensnare me by 
tempting me to sleep for a few minutes, and when it 
became almost irresistible, I burst into tears, thinking — 
" Have all my prayers and solicitude been ineffectual, 
have my cries not been heard, and has my concern for 
the last two or three days not been fervent enough, so 
that the Lord would enable me to resist any such tempta- 
tion that might be presented to me !" But, blessed forever 
be the name of the Most High, He caused these words to 
be spoken to my spiritual ear, " My grace is sufficient 
for thee!" I believed it to be his own voice, and I had 
faith — so Satan left me, and I had an unusually com- 
fortable meeting, which I hope will never be forgotten ; 



46 Life aqd Letters of 

ruy heart almost overflowed with gratitude and love. 
Ma}^ my soul dwell deep in the Valley of Humility, and 
never forget to look to its God for help. 

2nd. — Still bowed down and mourning, laden with 
heavy burdens, but still I have hope in God. 

3rd. — My soul still travailing and humble. The 
death of my dear brother was brought afresh to my re- 
membrance by a letter from a near friend ; also a fresh 
load of heart-rending trouble and grief, added to that 
which I already bore. I have long beeu wounded by the 
arrows of affliction, but all these thiugs are doubtless 
ordered for my further refinement aud purification ; and, 
Oh ! that they ma}- have the desired effect, saith my soul ! 

4th. — Bowed in spirit and sorely oppressed , got no 
relief in either meeting — sighs and groans my almost 
constant companions; I see fields of labor, at times, 
opening before me, but feel almost like a dried stick, 
and cannot do anything. The little life seems almost 
gone, and I cannot find Him whom I long for. Tell 
me, O ye that know, where has my Beloved hidden 
himself, for how can I live without his presence ? And 
yet I can hardly find strength to seek Him. Oh ! that 
I may keep my place, and not go astray, that I may 
dwell deep, and repose full confidence in Him who never 
leaves nor forsakes those who put their trust in Him. 

Permit me, Most Holy Father, to supplicate Thee 
on behalf of my afflicted soul ; permit me to raise my 
voice, unworthy as I am, and call thy attention from on 
high. Look down I beseech Thee, with pity, on a poor, 



Mary S. Lippincott. , 47 

frail mortal, whose heart is read}' to sink, and who is 
almost overwhelmed. Leave me not to perish, but keep 
me, I entreat Thee. Suffer me to abide under the 
shadow of thy wing. Cleanse me, purify me, try me, 
prove me, baptize me again and again, if consistent with 
thy holy will, u create in me a cleau heart, and renew a 
right spirit within me ;" teach me humility ; yea, keep 
me down deep in the valley, that I may not think much 
of myself. O, gracious Father ! lead me wheresoever 
Thou desirest me to go ; and make me willing to bow 
in full submission ; fill my heart with thy holy presence, 
then shall I be thy devoted servant, having a song of 
triumph in my mouth, even praises, glory, honor, and 
thanksgiving to "Thee, the only true God and Jesus 
Christ, whom Thou hast sent !" Amen ! 

Sixth Month 20th, 1824. — My occupations, and the 
weak state of my body, have not allowed me to take up the 
pen for a long time, but now I am at liberty to add more 
to my Diary, and may it be in humble simplicity. 
Though I am favored at times to feel the in shillings of 
Divine Light, and the sweetness of his countenance, yet 
it seems transient. Oh ! may I abide in the patience, 
through all my afflictions, seeking to profit thereby, 
favored still, as I often have been of late, to feel the 
overshadowing of Heavenly Love. I have long thought, 
at seasons, that I was fast hastening from time into 
eternity, and increasingly so of late ; but at other times 
have looked forward to what has appeared as work for 
me to do, but now all seems veiled from my sight ; and 



48 Life and Letters of 

alas ! my best feelings seem cold and dead. And yet, I 
have faith that the Lord will, one day, " arise with heal- 
ing in his wings ;" his former favors having been abun- 
dantly sufficient to fix my trust. And finding my bodily 
strength failing, I desire to be doubly watchful, that I 
may be prepared for whatever may befall. I would 
rather die, seeking to enter in at the " strait gate,' 1 than 
live a careless, unconcerned life, left to my own devices. 
2 1 st. — On looking over the past, I do not feel that I 
have done wrong to grieve, though I am striving to be 
quiet and composed ; yet truly 1 feel stripped of even- 
good thing, and deeply humbled , earnestly craving that 
I ma}- patiently abide uuder the hand of the Former, 
that I may be rightly formed to his own liking. I am 
very often reminded by my friends, that " Christians 
should be cheerful." I am brought to query what 
" cheerfulness" is ; and whether it is possible for per- 
sons, in every state of spiritual exercise, to be the same, 
and to evince, by the expression of the countenance, 
that they are free from care, joyous and light-hearted, 
carrying no burdens. I have felt what I consider true 
cheerfulness, when perhaps the tears have flowed down 
my cheeks, and my countenance has been very grave ; 
cheerfulness arising from the overflowings of Divine 
love in my heart, the sense of gratitude for the mercies 
shown me, all unworthy as I am. I do believe it is best 
for me to be sober in all my movements, quiet and retired, 
that I may be more watchful over myself; feeling that 
often " by the sadness of the countenance the heart is 



Mary S. Lippiqcolt. 49 

made better." Oh ! that I ma}^ be ever waiting, ever 
watching, ever ready ; that at whatsoever hour the 
Bridegroom may come, I may trim my lamp, and joy- 
fully go with Him into the marriage chamber. 

Eighth Month 5th, 1824. — Much favored this morn- 
ing in meeting, a precious season to me and to others ; 
much good counsel being also given to the children by 
J. Cook. I was afraid to go to meeting, as I sometimes 
am, lest more should be required of me than I am will- 
ing to yield unto : and though I so often covenant that 
I will do anything asked. for, if peace may be mine, yet 
when the time comes for the public avowal of my alle- 
giance to the Lord, I shrink. I struggled awhile after 
I had taken my seat, and felt the tender touches of 
Divine love. 

May I be content to be brought low, and humiliated, 
after such favored seasons as I have lately had, at times, 
such heartfelt relief from the sorrow that, for a time, was 
a daily companion. 



PART II. 

[ Found in a book containing miscellaneous items. The only dates in this 
collection — where the year is given — are those of 1823 and 1824. To some of 
the entries the day of the month is prefixed, but not the year.'] 

Blessed be the name of the Lord, " for his mercy 
endureth forever." 

Oh ! how I do desire that I may be kept from enter- 
ing into trivial conversation, or from going into unprof- 



50 Life and Letters of 

itable company, lest I be cast off forever from having 
any part in the Kingdom of Glory. 

On hearing of a person whose expression was that 
he was " as a brand plucked from the burning," I was 
ready to say within myself, if / am saved, I also shall 
be ; for I was told by a Gospel minister [William Fos- 
ter, from England], when I had escaped from the pros- 
pect of a sudden death — and I have since wondered how 
I escaped — that through mere}' I was spared; for had 
I died then, I should have been a brand for the fire. 

11 Those that seek me earl}- shall find me," saith 
the Lord. " Behold I stand at the door, and knock ; if 
any man hear my voice, and open the door, I will come 
in to him, and will sup with him, and he with me." If 
thou wilt be my disciple, I will lead thee into green 
pastures, and beside still waters, by which the Shepherd 
of Israel feeds his flock. Then thou mayst quench thy 
thirst, and satisfy thy hunger with that bread and that 
water which the world knows not of; only be thou faith- 
ful, and thou shalt be saved. How hard it is to yield 
my stubborn heart. Why am I not willing to have my 
mind always occupied aright ? I love to go to meetings, 
and often feel my meetings refreshing seasons ; but at 
other times, O, how the enemy comes and tempts me 
with drowsiness ! How long shall I be thus tempted? 
There is a possibility of overcoming, but not by my own 
strength ; for I have found that of myself I can do 
nothing. " Return, repent and live ;" for it is high 
time. 



Mary S. Lippincott. 51 

How often does the encouraging language which 
my beloved friend, J. M., gave me, come to my mind, 
and strengthen me so that I endeavor to persevere. O, 
how encouraging was the language which he handed 
forth, at a time when I was laboring under discourage- 
ment, feeling that all my striving and grieving would 
prove vain ; for I was ready to . think I was not in the 
path which I had been placed in when I first gave up 
to take up the cross ! The second time that he visited 
us here, he called me to him, after he had bid me fare- 
well, and said that his coming here again was uncertain, 
and that he wished to speak with me. He then addressed 
me about as follows : " Mary, I want thee to be encour- 
aged, for thou art in the right path ; and be particular 
to take good care to preserve thy health. The formation 
of discipline is not a sudden thing, but requires time, 
and thou wilt find times of rest from all thy cares." I 
suppose he meant for me to improve those times, which 
I hope I have been favored to do often, but I fear not 
always. 

The next time he came here, he called me to him 
in the evening, and said, " Mary, it has long rested on 
my mind to establish such a school as I have been speak- 
ing of, and if I should succeed, thou wilt hear from me, 
as it seems to me thou art the person ; but perhaps thou 
wilt not like to live out in the back woods." I replied 
that it would make but little difference where I lived, if 
I was only doing my duty. He said, for some years of 
my life, he supposed it would not make much ; and that 



52 Life aqd Letters of 

lie had felt me nearly and tenderly united* with him, and 
had been much refreshed in my company ; that when 
he first saw me, he saw that there was an extensive ser- 
vice for me to perform in some department. I answered 
that, if I was only obedient, that was all that was neces- 
sary. "Yes,' 1 said he, "and if \\\\ feelings do not de- 
ceive me, thou art obedient." I then said, I felt weak 
at times ; he replied, that after feeling weak, we could 
acknowledge that we received strength. We had some 
more conversation which I hope was profitable ; may I 
never forget it. 

Oh ! how can I ever be disobedient after having 
advanced so far as I have ? Did my friends know what 
baptisms -I have passed through ; could they feel the 
weight, the burden, that bows down my soul frequently, 
and did they know the agonies of my spirit — when my 
body is reclining upon the bed which is intended for a 
couch of rest — they would feel pity, they would feel 
S3 r mpathy with me, and then, I think, they would place 
no temptations in my way. How often do I lie, sighing, 
groaning and weeping, being, as it were, shut up in 
darkness ; my Heavenly Father seeing proper to with- 
draw himself from me that I may feel my own weak- 
ness and poverty, and hence the greater need of his 
strength. But, blessed be his name, in his own time, 
He is pleased to visit me again with his presence, and 
give me to taste of his gracious goodness ; others also have 
been baptized, before me, with the same baptism, and by 
adhering to it have become pillars in the church of their 



Mary S. Uppincott. 53 

Heavenly Father. Such examples afford me much en- 
couragement, and teach me not to despair, but to seek 
after strength to have self brought low, and to become 
obedient in all things, that I may neither dread to live, 
nor fear to die. 

This day have my thoughts been turned towards my 
dear, deceased brother. I consider that for more than 
two years he has been released from a world of trouble, 
that his body has moldered into dust, but that his spirit 
is at rest, singing praises day and night, to the King of 
kings. Oh ! that I also may be prepared to go ; that 
when I am called upon I may go, rejoicing, to the man- 
sion of rest. No one knows — save by experience — what 
it is to lose a near relative. But I will not dare to com- 
plain, but will try to be thankful that my tender mother 
and one dear brother are left. Should these be taken, 
be pleased, O Glorious Father, to enable me to bear the 
stroke without murmuring ! All thy ways are just and 
righteous. 

Our dear Friend, J. H., spoke in meeting some 
time to me, or to the exercised mind which was present. 
It applied to me, so that I knew it was for me to profit 
by ; for truly I was under deep exercise, and could 
hardly suppress my feelings ; the tears streamed from 
my eyes, and my sighs almost choked me. He said, 
during his discourse, that he believed it was with the 
person now, as with Saul formerly, who, though he knew 
he was anointed of the Lord, yet wished to abide in the 



54 Life and Letters of 

stuff. This was true concerning me. I have been, at 
times, made sensible, in a degree, of my calling ; but 
my natural wish was for another thing ; for not much 
longer remaining in a single state, but uniting with 
the object of my affections ; which course I find is not 
right yet, though it may be at some future time. 

Oh, may I remember what J. H. also said, for it has 
been shown me for some years past that I have been 
spared and nourished up to do a ivork, which if I do not 
give up to do, woe will be unto me. Oh ! that I may 
only be obedient in all things ; that my soul may not be 
lost. 

Oh, how was my soul bowed down to-day, after leav- 
ing meeting, having been there tempted, at the begin- 
ning of the meeting, with drowsiness! I feel almost 
ready to despair, and have been made to cry — " My God, 
[Oh,] why hast thou forsaken me!" Even since then 
have I been tempted to do wrong, but not so strongly as 
to yield. I sat down alone and queried with my God, 
why am I thus shut up ? AYhat must I do ? But I can- 
not find his presence as heretofore. When wilt thou 
return, O Lord, to fill me with thy presence, that I may 
again rejoice ? My only hope is in Thee. I am very 
poor and needy ; I hunger and thirst ; I long to be fed 
by thy own hand, and to drink of thy cup, for I feel 
almost ready to faint by the way. Oh, that I may be 
strengthened to press forward with hope. If I could re- 
lieve ni}' mind by revealing my situation to some friend, 
it might afford me a little comfort ; but I find no liberty 



Mary S. Lippincott. 55 

to do so, though I am frequently asked what ails me — 
whether I have the headache, &c. Can it be that none 
of this family have any idea what ails me ? Are they 
not capable of judging by the spirit? I fear I am not 
competent to do my duty here, when my mind is so 
burdened ; but I do not often feel the burden while in 
school, as my mind is otherwise occupied while there. 

It is hard to be found fault with, by those around 
us, but I desire to bear it patiently, and not to retaliate, 
believing that with all my might I strive to do the best 
I know, to do my duty to those placed under my care, 
though I sometimes feel ready to give up my own judg- 
ment in school matters. 

Oh, that I may wait in patience, and not run before 
I am sent, nor yet hang back when I ought to go. That 
I may not give to others what is meant for myself, nor 
keep what is intended for others. The pain in my head 
is often violent, so as to make me think of former times. 
It is good for me to be afflicted, that I may not be un- 
mindful of the sufferings of others, or of myself at other 
times. This day hath been one of sorrow and heaviness 
of heart. 

On Seventh-day afternoon I felt much distressed, but 
found little opportunity to be alone, till evening. Then 
I did not feel well in health, and the distress of my 
mind is beyond the power of language to describe. The 
anguish, the rendings, the heart-felt sorrow that pierced 
me, seemed to admit of no relief. I walked the floor of 
my room, and poured forth streams of tears, while my 



56 Life and Letters of 

sighs almost stifled me. At a late hour I retired, not yet 
finding anj- relief, neither knowing the cause of my dis- 
tress. I thought I should have some deeper baptism to 
pass through. I lay on my bed groaning and weeping, till 
I found liberty to close my eyes. I then recommended 
nryself to God, desiring that He would be pleased not to 
withhold his hand from chastening me. In the morning 
I felt no better, but went to meeting and sat down in 
the quiet, desiring to be still and wait. I found no 
relief: could not discover that I had sinned, save in 
being over anxious to see one thing the day before. The 
time between the meetings was passed in sorrow, believ- 
ing that death was to be my lot, and that soon. Went 
to meeting in the afternoon, and was favored with a ray 
of light and hope. I wondered that I could think of 
nothing, not even of passages of Scripture ; but could 
only sit breathing for help ; when it presented to my 
mind that new wine must not be put into old bottles, lest 
the bottles become marred, and the wine spilled, but new 
wine must be put into new bottles, that both may be 
preserved. Then I saw that the old in me was not en- 
tirely done away, and I craved that I might be created 
anew. I felt not much better till Second-day evening, 
when I was taken more unwell, and could see nothing 
but death before me. I sat down alone, in the kitchen, 
by the fire ; and in my meditation and distress, some 
things opened to my view, and so on, till the cloud passed 
away, and a brightness as of the Sun of Righteousness 
shone forth. I now felt entirely weaned from earthly 



Mary S. Lipptncott. 57 

things, and perfectly resigned to die, thinking that I soon 
should, I prayed that I might bear my sickness through- 
out patiently ; then I began to feel that death was not 
so near, and that this conflict was to wean me more from 
the world, and make me more Mailing to do the Lord's 
service, which He was about to require of me. I feel 
yet bowed, for fear I shall not willingly give up to open 
my mouth in public, if He still requires me to, as I have 
had many reasons, for this long time, to expect He will. 
I feel bowed down to the very dust, willing to creep on 
the earth with my face covered with the dust thereof, for 
Christ's sake ; and yet it seems almost worse than death 
to think of the service before me, even opening my 
mouth in public. Oh! that I may be obedient and faith- 
ful , for if I am not, woe will be unto me. There will be 
no greater service imposed upon me than I am able to 
perform, if I am only obedient. But Oh, what I have 
yet to pass through ! I must be broken again and again, 
until I am willing to give Him my heart. O glorious 
God ! O righteous Father ! be pleased to chasten me 
still, but not in thine anger, lest I be consumed. Baptize 
me with deeper baptisms ; dip me still deeper in Jordan ; 
choose me in the furnace of affliction, according to thy 
just will, that I may be made willing to give up my life 
to thy service, and give Thee the glory, honor, and praise 
forever. Amen. 

If I could dwell alone, then would I pour out my 
soul aloud to my God ; but perhaps it is right that I 
have employment. 



58 Life and Letters of 

I thank Thee, Oh Father, that Thou hast not suffered 
me to be tempted with drowsiness in some of my late 
meetings, and I have long found Thou wouldst not suffer 
me to be tempted when I asked for help in faith. 

Sixth Mouth 24th. — Oh, the griefs of my heart ! The 
distress ! What shall I do ? I fear I am sinking into a 
state of melancholy. Having my mind partly engaged 
through the day, makes the distress press more heavily at 
night ; and in my lonely hours, sleep has almost fled from 
me for some time past, and I feel as if 1113^ health would 
be injured more and more, unless I can find some remedy. 
I cannot find that I have been guilty of evil that is 
working upon me ; my sins have appeared to me to be 
blotted out, through my repenting, and trying to do my 
best. This trying dispensation must be to wean me en- 
tirely from all earthly things. Already I feel so far 
weaned, that I can wish to live for nothing but to serve 
my God. It is good for me to be afflicted, that I may 
continue to be weaned, for I know from experience that 
sin bringeth sorrow. I feel that I must give up all, and 
submit to the cross ; but I regard myself almost as one 
unworthy to perforin a service. My night visions, what 
is their interpretation ? Being, as I think, not asleep, 
but lost in sorrow a few weeks since — I saw as I lay 
upon my bed, a large chain lowered down from the ceil- 
ing to the floor, and it seemed to move towards me, and 
to disturb me so, that I shook with fear. Last night, as 
I lay in deep sorrow, I saw another chain, with three 



Mary S. Lippincott, 59 

cords of very fine iron strands, of a bluish color, let down 
from the ceiling on to my bed, close by my right side 
(I think there were not more than three cords), and I 
saw them shake, which alarmed me so greatly that I 
trembled for fear, and was almost choked with grief. 
What can be the meaning of so extraordinary a sight ? 
Persons sometimes have to be chained, but I hope that 
this is not to be my lot. It has occurred to me that the 
interpretation, in part — or perhaps all — is that I must 
be fastened with that iron chain which is an emblem of 
the golden chain which was let down from Heaven, 
whose three cords were " Faith, Hope and Charity." I 
do not know that such a thing has ever been spoken of, 
but I think it must have been, or it would not have been 
presented to my mind. Oh ! that I may be helped to 
have faith and hope, believing that my gracious Master 
will in his own time return, and that I may also have 
charity for those who trespass against me. 

Tenth Month 3rd. — Oh, wretched one that I am, 
where shall I flee for safety ? I fear that for these two 
weeks past I have not been advancing toward Zion as 
fast as heretofore. What is it that has turned me aside, 
or impeded my progress ? Who can tell ? Oh, that I 
may not be at ease, lest He " spew me out of his mouth," 
with the lukewarm. I have not known, I believe, for 
several months, what it is to smile with an easy heart. 
Indeed, for several years I have felt something within, 
restraining me from indulging in levity ; though I have 
sometimes bordered on it. I feel deeply concerned lest 



60 Life and Letters of 

I shall be cut off in the bloom of life, for not being will- 
ing to give up freely to putting my talents to usefulness 
in the church. That I ought to do so, or I shall be 
found wanting, has been shown to me by the inspeaking 
Word, as well as by the Lord's servants. I often think 
I could willingly close my eyes forever — feeling no 
strong ties to bind me to this world — and often feel as 
if my end were near ; and a few evenings since, when 
dwelling under this feeling, these lines flowed sponta- 
neously from my mind : — 

I feel my days as almost past, 
And look to Him with hope at last. 
From whom all blessings come : 

May He be pleased to condescend 
To be my Father and my Friend, 
And guide my spirit home 

Help me, O Thou most righteous and adorable 
Father ! Be pleased to help me, thy poor afflicted, hum- 
ble, dependent child, who goes sorrowing on her way. 
Keep me humble, suffer me, unworthy as I am, to raise 
mine eyes to Heaven, and admit me to partake a little of 
the bread of life. With thy rod correct me, and chastise 
me according to thy righteous will, until I be purified 
from the dross, and cleansed ; then shall I be able to 
worship Thee in spirit and in truth. Thou who alone 
art worth}- of all praise, honor, and glory, forever — I feel 
a little of thy strengthening presence ; I taste a little of 
thy goodness, so as to acknowledge that Thou hast not 
left me in the vale of woe, but that Thou still hast mercy 



Mary S. Lippincott. 61 

upon me ; still lookest down with an eye of compassion, 
as a tender Father on a repenting child. Bow me down, 
I humbly beseech Thee, into the dust ; cause my bread 
to be mingled with sighs, and my drink with tears, that 
I may, through these dispensations, be made willing to 
turn my back wholly upon the world, and my face to 
Zion. Then shall I become obedient to Thee, who alone 
can save me in the hour of temptation, and keep me from 
falling into the pit. Blessed be thy name forever. May 
thy kingdom be established above all in me. May I 
serve Thee with all my might, power and strength, even 
unto the end. 

Oh ! that I may find Him (the Alpha and Omega) , 
to be present with me when I awake in the morning, 
that I may renew my covenants, and double my diligence, 
to press forward toward the glorious prize. 



PART III. 

First Month, 1844. — It has been steadily my in- 
tention to look over and adjust my writings, as some 
of my early experiences and exercises of spirit, may 
be profitable to my children, at least, and perhaps unto 
others ; but as yet opportunity has not served. I also 
feel it right to leave on record my views on some subjects. 

I am now in my forty-third year, and on looking 
back to what occurred in my youth, it seems so long ago 
as to be almost like a dream. Oh ! the deep provings 



62 Life and Letters of 

and exercises that were mine, no mortal knows ; but, 
thanks be unto God, He showed me the beauty of the 
" New Jerusalem," and steadily instructed me that the 
righteous should inherit it, and find joy and peace in 
dwelling therein. The Lord has not forgotten his hand- 
maiden, even in her low estate, keeping me in " perfect 
peace," as my mind has been " stayed on Him, and I 
have "trusted" Him fully, to "supply my every need." 

Second Month, 1845. — How swiftly the years roll 
around ! To think that so many years of my life should 
have passed away, and so little of the great work shown 
me, (at the time that I was a school-girl, when the lan- 
guage saluted iny spiritual ear, l4 Simon, sou of Jonas, 
lovest thou me ? Feed my sheep ; ") so little of the work 
seen in the opening of visions has been accomplished. 

Oh, that I could extricate myself from my worldly 
concerns, so as to attend more fully to requisitions of 
duty ; or that, by my own industry, I might procure 
pecuniar)- means, so as to feel warranted in paying visits 
in Gospel love, in accordance with the clear manifesta- 
tions of duty — a work to which more faithfully to attend, 
I believe would be a blessing to me, in every sense of the 
word. Thou only knowest, Most Hoi}- One, what the 
exercises of my spirit, the deep baptisms, have been and 
are ; Thou only knowest what I have passed through for 
months past, because my way seemed hedged in on every 
side, so that the shrinking from known duty has brought 
weakness and darkness, till I have felt read) 7 to adopt 
the language, " My foot had well-nigh slipped." 



Mary S. Lippincott. 03 

Yet, Thou art matchless mercy, and in Thee have I 
hope, that, as my soul boweth in awful reverence and 
prostration, desiring nothing but to serve Thee, that 
Thou wilt cast up a way before me into the South ; 
whither, for many years, thou hast shown me that my 
feet must be turned ; that the glad tidings of the Gospel 
of peace and salvation ma}'' be proclaimed, tending to 
the opening of the prison doors and setting the captives 
free. O ye Southern States ! the " voice of thy brother's 
blood crieth unto me from the ground," saith the Lord. 
Hear ye the voice of the quickening Spirit of the great 
"I am," that ye may escape the judgments of the Al- 
mighty, by turning aside from the iniquity of oppressing 
your fellow-men ! Men, made by the same good Being, 
for the same great end, and whose salvation is equally 
precious in his sight; for, "All souls are mine," saith 
the Lord. As that of the master, so of the slave. Poor, 
bowed down, and oppressed, with a load of ignorance 
heaped upon him by his more depraved superior, the 
white man — more depraved because he sins with his 
eyes open ; sounding abroad his belief in the New Tes- 
tament, while living in open violation of its precepts. 
Oh, the weight of the concern that I have felt, increas- 
ingly so, for years, for the United States of America, that 
it might become a truly Christian nation, having no 
other banner than the " banner of the Prince of Peace ;" 
that as our written " Institutions" are, so we may be — a 
light to surrounding nations, in peace, in uprightness, 
in temperance, in meekness, in brotherly kindness and 



64 Life and Letters of 

iu charity. That the sound of implements of war be 
not heard, nor the glistening of weapons be seen in our 
Western Land ; that the groan of oppression be no more 
heard throughout our borders, with nothing to hurt or 
destro3 T , because righteousness covers the earth, as the 
u waters cover the sea," and justice reigns, from the 
" rivers to the ends of the earth." 

Tenth Month 4th, 1853.— Thou knowest, O Lord! 
that my request, on the bended knee of the soul, has 
been in regard to the arduous undertaking of re-opening 
school. If thou, Lord, wilt be with me, and keep me in 
this way, that I go, and give me u bread to eat, and 
raiment to put on," then Thou shalt be my God, and of 
all that Thou givest me, a part of my outward substance, 
as Thou directest, shall be devoted to the use designed ; 
so that I may be found following the footsteps of thy dear 
Son, when He appeared in the outward life, doing good to 
the bodies as well as the souls of men. In what way can 
this be used to more profit, than in aiding the dear youth 
in receiving a guarded education, that they may grow 
up prepared to be helpful, as social beings, in the com- 
munity, and useful members of the militant church ? 
But, Thou beholdest my frailties, and seest my weak- 
nesses. Of myself I can do nothing in this concern. 
Help me, O Father! for on thy name do I call, having 
none to look to but Thee, nor to pour out my feelings 
unto ! To Thee do I make known my cause, while the 
mountains, as it were, are upon my shoulders, weighing 



Mary S. Lippincott. 65 

me down. I ask not for an easier path, but that in 
patience and resignation I may bow under the burden, 
and walk in the way appointed, till the mountain of 
difficulty be removed, the outward debts be paid, and 
the inward accounts be squared. The former I have 
longed for more than anything else in the world, the 
latter, more than life ! O Father ! Thou kuowest my 
besetments, and that Thou hast made a way for me from 
my youth up, when both inwardly and outwardly, no 
way appeared. Thou hast done much, and forgiven 
much ; therefore, may I love much, and serve Thee all 
the days of my life. What is the world to me, only as 
thy gift ? What are all its riches compared with heav- 
enly treasure ? When the light of thy countenance is 
beheld, all is beaming with joy ; when clouds and dark- 
ness are around about the habitation of thy throne, then 
sadness reigns ! But, when sadness covers my spirit, 
owing to the weight of responsibility resting upon me, 
I have to put on a cheerful countenance for the sake of 
those entrusted to my charge, lest I make my own words 
of no account ; viz : " This is a world in which little is 
given us to complain of, but much to enjoy ;" and again, 
Having in all things " a conscience void of offence toward 
God, and toward men." This constitutes that peace 
which the world can neither give nor destroy ! I have 
had a diversified path through life, many trials and sore 
conflicts ; but in all, my God has never forsaken me ! 
I have known of his goodness and his mercy, and 
that they fail not. He is surely on my side, and will up- 



66 Life and Letters of 

hold me during the few, fleeting days yet allotted me in 
this lower world ; and when my time here closes, will 
take me to himself in eternity. Oh ! what a bright and 
glorious prospect ! Often, very often, dearest Father, 
hast Thou given me, in the visions of light, a view of the 
existence beyond the grave, and a foretaste of the joys 
to come, to buoy me up while journeying in the deeps, 
alone in the midst of company, and as an orphan in the 
wilderness of this world. Keep my precious children, 
O Holy One ! that they may dwell in thy courts, and 
walk in the way of obedience ; loving Thee more than 
the world, and thy law and thy testimonies, more than 
the glory and the glitter presented to their youthful 
view. 

I feel that I am rapidly approaching " that bourn 
from whence no traveler returns," and Oh, how I long 
for retirement and indwelling of spirit, that I may be 
prepared from da)' to day, so to order my footsteps aright, 
as to encourage others to walk in the fear of the Lord, 
and to love righteousness. 

My love for my fellow-beings increases with the 
increase of years ; but I love the Truth and its testi- 
monies too dearly to sacrifice them in order to gain the 
friendships of this world. The love of God enlarges my 
feelings in love to Him, and to his servants ; unites my 
heart to them in the fellowship of the Gospel of his dear 
Son, and overflows in desire for the gathering of the 
scattered tribes, for the return of the poor wanderer and 
the salvation of all. Peace to him that is afar off, and 



Mary S. Lippincott. 67 

to him that is nigh, if his face is only turned toward Zion 
— if he is journeying thitherward — but "there is no peace 
to the wicked ! " These must turn from their evil ways 
before his servants can have fellowship with them. And 
from whom must the servant withdraw sooner than from 
thieves and robbers ; those who are striving to climb up 
some other way into the kingdom, than by " Christ the 
door?" Such are they who are erecting creeds, substi- 
tuting rites and ceremonies ; calling upon men to bow 
before images and put up petitions unto them, as though 
these could save them, or empower them to overcome 
their enemies, or " turn the battle to the gate." 

Such are they who are running in their own time 
and way, to convert the world, and to reform their fellow- 
beings. " By their fruits " shall ye know them. Are 
their fruits humility, simplicity, self-denial — a renuncia- 
tion of the world's customs and policies ? Or, are not 
too many of these seen gorgeously attired, and conform- 
ing to the world in its flattering titles, and in its salaried 
ministry, studied sermons, prayers, and such like ? Or, 
are the times changed since the days that the Holy 
Jesus found, among his bitterest enemies, the High 
Priests, and professors of a Pharisaical religion — the 
Sabbatarians, and those who were sticklers for their 
church rites, making them of account in direct violation 
of the doctrines of Christ. " It is the spirit that quick- 
eneth, the flesh profiteth nothing." Have not Friends 
fallen into the current that is rushing onward, and bear- 
ing down almost everything before it ; a current of unity 



68 Life aqd Letters of 

with this working with all (whether qualified or not, by 
the preparing Hand) to bring about by outward means, 
a reformation ? We need not again an outward Saviour, 
for it is declared, tl He died once for all." In that pre- 
pared body. He "bore our iniquities," He was bruised 
for our transgressions, and with his stripes are we healed." 
A spiritual Saviour is now needed to take us within the 
veil where the life is, and where we are to learn the way 
to " work the works of righteousness," which are peace, 
and the effect of wliich is " quietness and assurance for- 
ever!" Oh, ni} T people! come ye unto the light of the 
Lord, and raise an ensign before the nations ; say ye to 
the inhabitants of the earth, "Christ is risen!" He is 
not in the earth, but above it ; come up hither, in spirit, 
and behold his spiritual appearance, the Christ of God, 
manifested in man — a Saviour to save him from sin ; a 
Redeemer to redeem his spirit ; a way by which to ap- 
proach the Father — the wa}-, the truth, the light and the 
life ! All the angels in Heaven are subject unto Him ; 
his kingdom is an everlasting kingdom, established 
when all others are overthrown. No man knoweth the 
Father but the Son, and he to whom the Son revealeth 
Him ; to have the Father revealed, the Son must be 
born in us — the Son of God, and the Son of Man — the 
Lord's Christ ! "Manifest in the flesh, justified in the 
spirit, preached to the Gentiles, believed on in the world, 
[and] received up into glory." May Friends unite in a 
saving belief in Him ; which is to " know Thee, the only 
true God, and Jesus Christ, whom Thou hast sent," for 



Mary S. Lippincott. 69 

this is "life eternal." O Lord! keep me in a humble, 
teachable state, ever learning in the school of Christ, 
when and where only, Christians are taught. 

First Month ist, 1854. — My time is so occupied 
with the many pressing cares connected with our Board- 
ing School concerns, that my pen is often laid aside 
unused, even when very much arises to place on paper, 
or to convey to others. I fear that my thoughts, like 
the water that lacks an outlet, will become stagnant ; a 
circulation keeps them pure if they flow in a pure chan- 
nel. 

Another year is begun ; O, time ! how rapid is thy 
flight ; and ah, how little work is done ! I look, and 
behold childhood and youth far in the past ; the strength 
and energy of middle-age gone ; and now I am descend- 
ing the hill that leads down to the silent grave, the dust 
from which I was taken. How soon the period will 
arrive, when a veil will obscure terrestrial objects, and 
the things that have been visible will be seen no more 
forever. How has the world changed to me, an evidence 
that I myself, have changed. Many things delighted 
me once, even when my life was in the midst of bitter- 
ness ; now I feel that I would gladly retire from every- 
thing, for the welfare of the church, and the good of my 
fellow-men. Everything now is a hardship, save only the 
work to which I have feebly put my hand. And yet, I 
do but little, and keep back from labor, being beset on 
every hand. Oh ! how faithful were our early Friends, 
and how devoted to the cause which they so heartily 



70 Life aqd Letters of 

espoused : neither their outward business nor the arm 
of power, arrested their progress ; thus they were made 
" fruitful in the field of Offering, and joyful in the house 
of prayer." O that way would open for me to cast off 
my burdens in those parts of the vineyard to which they 
severally belong ! For I feel pressed down, as a " cart 
[under] sheaves." 

Twelfth Month 2nd. — Nearly a year has elapsed 
since I opened my book to write, but I have penned 
a great many letters, &c. Believing it right to do 
so, I correspond with many friends on the subjects 
which most nearly interest me, — the spread of the peace- 
able religion of Jesus ; the advancement of the glorious 
cause of Truth ; and the welfare of our highly-favored 
Society — that this would return to first principles and its 
first love, thereby to be a " burning and a shining light," 
bearing witness unto the Truth ; and pointing to the 
" Lamb of God which taketh away the sin of the world." 

First Month 1st, 1855. — Another year has unfolded 
itself to view, ushered in with a placid serenity befitting 
my retired feelings ; and with a brightness analagous to 
the glory which breaks upon my mental vision. Last 
evening, passed away the purified spirit of my beloved, 
my revered friend, Mary Jessup ; taken from us in the 
midst of her usefulness, and when her path, as the just 
man's, was brightening to the " perfect day." The time 
spent with her in her sick chamber, was a memorable 
season ; it seemed as though the Almighty was beheld 
there, sitting upon his throne, his train filling his holy 



Mary S. Lippincott. 71 

temple. I said in my heart, as language distilled like 
the dew of Heaven from her lips, u while in, she is above 
the world." God maketh her face to shine, and giveth 
her strength and language more than human. Oh ! if 
I had ever doubted a happy immortality, I could have 
doubted it no longer. Her happiness amidst extreme 
suffering and great bodily weakness, no language can 
portray. The brightness of her perceptions ; the sweet 
composure with which she gave to her dear husband and 
children, and many others, her dying admonitions ; her 
parting counsel and fervent prayers, contriting every 
heart. None but a Divine Hand could have sustained 
her. The reward of a well-spent life, was, in part, re- 
ceived, ere the vital spark was quenched. She is gone, 
and I am sad, though rejoicing in. her release from suf- 
fering. She asked for me a blessing, and prayed that 
some of the youth might be raised up to bear up my 
hands in old age. That in near feelings of unity, she 
had done it, we having been closely bound together. 
Ah ! I have indeed lost a friend ; may my spirit be hum-, 
bled and kept at the feet of Jesus, so that I may be cared 
for and preserved during my pilgrimage journey. 

First Month 24th. — The twenty-fifth year since the 
birth of my first child ! What changes since then, and 
how many trying dispensations. Five sons (the eldest, 
mine by adoption, a choice young man, the son of my 
dear I.), removed from this to a better world ; all innocent 
and happy ! Close as were the trials, blessed be God, 
He always gave me the spirit of resignation, so that I 



72 Life and Letters of 

could bless the hand that afflicted, not asking their stay ; 
and could adopt the language, " Thy will be done !" 
And now, in looking back over all the trials of my past 
life (and these have been many), they sink into insignifi- 
cance when compared with the " goodness and mercy" 
that have followed me all my days, even in the time of 
my greatest rebellion, when met by the " reproofs of in- 
struction," which are the way of life. As judgments 
then, his mercy was shown bidding me to bow at his 
presence, while his " mercy covered the judgment seat." 
Oh ! how shall I ever tell, in the fullness of his " loving 
kindness to the children of men ;" or how speak of the 
many bountiful gifts dispensed, both spiritual and tem- 
poral, to poor wayward man, to insure his happiness in 
this changing state, and in that which is unchangeable 
— a brilliant scene ? 

This earth, formed as it is, and surrounded by yon 
orbs of dazzling beauty, has not been formed in vain, 
for man to live upon and despise. Ah ! no ; it is the 
Almighty's footstool, where the prints are seen of his 
all-potent tread. Walk where we may, there may we 
see his Heavenly impress ; in the plants that grow, from 
the greatest to the least ; in the beasts that roam the 
forests ; the birds that soar high in the air ; and in the 
varied tribes that inhabit the waters — these are all the 
works of Deity, who pronounced them " good" when He 
created them, and gave them their position. At the 
head of the animal creation He placed man, the "lord 
of all." As head of these, a harmonious head, should he 



Mary S. Lippincott. 73 

keep his position. But, alas ! he fell ; by disobedience 
he fell, and sorrow and suffering came into the world. 

27th. — I have learned more in the school of afflic- 
tion, than in all the joyous seasons I have ever known ; 
for in times when outward springs of consolation were 
closed, then the poor mind resorted, as did the woman 
of Samaria, to Jacob's well, and there found the Master, 
with living water, waiting to give freely, and to instruct 
with his loving counsel ; — in this school I have had 
many a lesson to learn. To use the words of dear James 
Simpson, the elder, " I took my degrees in the back 
part of the wilderness, where the spirit of the Lord 
moved Samson, in the camp of Dan." I had none to 
look to as my teacher, or to depend upon but the Most 
High God, who spake to my mind by the language of 
impression, and who also, made the Holy Scriptures 
instrumental in my instruction, opening passages an- 
swering to my state of mind ; and showing me the wonder- 
working power of the Invisible One within his rational 
creatures, to bring them into a state of preparation for 
the enjoyment of his presence, and of his glorious King- 
dom forever ! 

Touching visible things, man by his wisdom, even 
the " spirit of man" which is given him, may compre- 
hend them in their appearances, in their movements, 
and in their changes ; knowing at the same time, that 
"there lives and works a soul in all things, and that 
soul is God." But, touching spiritual things, these 
cannot be understood by the natural man, neither can 



74 Life and Letters of 

he comprehend them, only as in passive obedience to 
that " sure word of prophecy," he gives heed in all 
things, " until the day dawn, and the day-star arise in 
[his] heart ;" giving attention to the first preparing for 
an increase of Heavenly light and knowledge, and of 
that wisdom which cometh down from above, making 
him "wise unto salvation." 

First Month ist, 1856.— This, the first day of the 
week, of the month, and of the 3^ear, comes clothed in 
robes of spotless white, none of the defilements of the 
year just departed, nothing to soil the garment that cov- 
ers the trees and ground ! How is it with the hearts of 
the sons and daughters of men ? Let us view our own, 
in that light that dawns upon our understandings, and 
see whether the same purity and spotless innocence 
abound! Whether passively, through the night-season, 
as one year was retreating and another advancing, we 
spread out our minds to receive the grace of God in its 
descendings, to obliterate all crime ; to wash away our 
sins, and remove every defilement ; so that, with the 
ushering in of a new morning, we might arise from our 
beds of slumber, as new-born babes, fitted to begin our 
labors in the new creation. And to behold more beauti- 
ful than heretofore (because of a preparation to admire 
and adore Him) the wondrous works of an Almighty 
Power. Oh ! my soul, search and examine well, ere 
thou answers, search and know the truth ; hast thou not 
slackened thy speed of late, and have not thy senses 
became less keen ? Hast thou been poured out like 



Mary S. Lippincott. 7S 

wine, for thy fellow probationers, or, like Ephraim, hast 
thon " settled upon the lees ?" Hast thou not been 
resting secure and at ease in thy ceiled house, while the 
House of God is lying desolate and waste ; and all this 
lukewarmness and slothfulness, even after thy many 
covenants, and the mercy and loving kindness of which 
thou hast bountifully partaken ? Arise now from thy 
lethargy, renew thy energies, and put on thy armor, and 
go forth in the name of the Lord, for the time is short, 
and the labor is pressing ! How swiftly the years roll 
around ! A few more and thou shalt pass into Eternity 
— if thy work is finished, into a happy Eternity, if not, 
awful the reflection ! Oh ! that I may put on strength, 
and be renewed for toil ; spreading my tent in the Val- 
ley ; and there dwelling with Him, whose abiding place 
is in the hearts of those who have become temples fit for 
the u Holy Ghost to dwell in." There is the only safe 
dwelling-place, and there, too, is refreshment known, 
for the gentle dews and celestial showers, descend upon 
the green pastures, and enlarge the quiet streams. 

Twelfth Month 31st, 1857. — This evening closes 
another year ; bright, calm and serene. There is a sol- 
emn silence within doors and without — a fit season for 
meditation ! Since this time one year ago, how many 
dear to me in life, have passed away — their removal 
leaving a void not to be again filled — among these, dear 
N. P. Thou wast most beloved, my more than sister ; 
my bosom friend, to whom my soul was knit by an in- 
dissoluble tie, to whom I poured out, fearlessly, all my 



76 Life and Letters of 

heart's joys and sorrows! And now, there is no one 
left to whom I can so freely speak, sure of being under- 
stood ; my sorrows must be locked up in a casket, undis- 
turbed. Art thou far away, dear friend ? No, our affec- 
tion cannot be dissolved ; death surely could not have 
power over unchanging and unchangeable love. May I 
not follow thee to the Spirit world, and behold thee ar- 
rayed in glorious robes, one of the beauteous throng 
surrounding the Throne of Omnipotence ? Oh ! that I 
may join thee there, when I shall have filled up the 
measure of my days ; there may we be reunited, to know 
parting and sorrow no more. As we have worshipped, 
prayed and praised together here, so let us there, in the 
presence of the King, join in songs of praise forever. 

Father, prepare me to bear the portion of trial yet 
to be meted out to me, with patience and resignation. 
" Hitherto hath the Lord helped " me, in great straits 
and close conflicts. Oh ! bring me more and more into 
the true quietness ; for, in the world there are strife, 
noise and confusion, but in thy presence, peace. Oh, 
Father! keep my clear children so in the innocency, 
that they may receive thy holy anointing oil, so that 
their eyes may be anointed to see the glories of thy 
Kingdom, and the loveliness of the Truth ; for the Truth 
needs advocates. Many are running into theory and 
speculation ; climbing up into the tree of knowledge to 
become wise above that which is written ; when the 
heart is not established in God's love, the creature is 
exalted instead of the Creator. Oh, my soul ! thou art 



Mary S. Lippincott. 77 

settled with regard to doctrine, and satisfied that enough 
has been given thee for thy day's work ; thou knowest 
that Infinite Wisdom unfolds his truths to dedicated 
minds, that to these He gives the key to open, when 
none can shut. 

First Month ist, 1853. — A new day, a new year, has 
unfolded itself in the brightness and beauty of a mild 
winter morning. It is an auspicious morning ; and I 
feel that I have blessings to enumerate, many and boun- 
tiful ; temporal blessings not a few, as well as spiritual, 
when my heart is spread out before the Lord to receive 
them. He withholds " no good thing" from those that 
love Him. Many have been the trials and tossings that 
have beset my pilgrimage path ; into many straits have 
I been brought, but the Lord never forsook me, but de- 
livered me out of them all. He has borne with all my 
weaknesses through life, has thrown his mantle of love 
over me to cover them ; and still sheds abroad his glorious 
light, to enlighten my pathway to the haven of rest. I 
have abundant cause to bless and magnify his great 
name forever. In adversity, in loneliness, in youth, in 
temptations on every side, thou, Lord, wast by my side, 
though I knew it not ; Thou wast on my right hand, to 
sustain from falling into perdition. In childhood, when 
sorrow melted my heart because my dear mother was 
sorely afflicted, and my mind shared in her grief, then 
did thy love and tenderness contrite me, even to tears, 
I knew not why ; not only for my fellow-mortals, but for 
the poor, dumb beasts, did I pour forth my sympathy, if 



78 Life and Letters of 

any were suffering or in want. Mysterious to the mind 
are thy workings in the deeps, to form the soul to thy 
liking, and to mould it for future use ; but, if the material 
is there, and passive, as " clay in the hands of the potter," 
however rough and unpliable at first, Thou canst fashion 
it in thy way and time, and prepare it to endure the 
furnace, without receiving crack or flaw. Not only me, 
O Father! but Oh, remember my children, and let thy 
hand press upon them to break them to pieces, and then 
form them anew, and anoint them for service in thy 
church. It is not too soon for them to begin to be en- 
gaged in their social and religious duties, for we have, 
at best, little time in which to finish these. How it 
pains my heart to see the young, and those just passing 
from youth, trifling away their precious time in light 
reading and light conversation, so much as to encroach 
upon hours that should be given to devotion, and to mak- 
ing the inquiry, " Lord, what wilt Thou have me do," 
that I may serve Thee in time, and enjoy Thee through 
the endless ages of eternity ? In childhood I will seek 
Thee ; in manhood (womanhood) I will serve Thee, work- 
ing in the garden of my own heart, and in the vineyard, 
as Thou appointest me, that I insure the reception of the 
blessed " penny " at the close. Oh ! that this resolution 
might obtain with the rational family of man ; then how 
much more would this earth resemble a paradise, and the 
inhabitants thereof, the saints in Heaven. If the children 
of Friends, favored as the)- are, do trample under foot 
our testimonies, as things of naught, the time will assur- 



Mary S. Lippiqcott. 79 

edly come, when " strangers shall feed [our] flocks, and 
the sons of the alien shall be [our] vine-dressers." My 
soul mourns to see our testimony to plainness of address 
so violated ! Offending in one part of our law (Discipline) 
we are offenders, and shall never prosper in supporting 
the work of the testimony of Truth. "Be ye clean that 
bear the vessels of the Lord." We may slip, through 
unwatchfulness, and find repentance and forgiveness ; but 
if we knowingly violate our Discipline, we are incon- 
sistent members, professing more than we possess ; and 
thus we become a by-word to honest-hearted Christians, 
who are not of our fold. 

No people have been more highly favored and blessed 
than Friends ; no religious teaching is better fitted than 
theirs to advance the Redeemer's kingdom, which brings 
peace on earth and " good will toward men." 

How great, therefore, is the pity that we should be 
trammelled by inconsistency — lame and halt, instead of 
firmly supporting the banner of Truth, and marching 
foremost in the ranks. 

Second Month 9th, 1858. — At half-past five o'olock, 
p. m., my beloved husband, my trusted companion, quietly 
passed away, after much suffering, to a blessed and happy 
eternity. He was aged seventy-two years and nearly six 
months. 

Oh, how it sustained us in the hour of bereavement 
to know that his work was done ; that his mind had been 
gathered and centered, trusting in the hand of the Al- 



80 Life and Letters of 

might) 7 to conduct him, through sickness and death, to 
his home in Heaven. 

He lived and died a Christian — much devoted to his 
Master's cause. I asked that his mantle of deliberation 
and quiet might descend upon me, a lonely widow, that 
I might be guarded on ever)' hand, to journey on my 
way alone. 

Fifth Month 16th, 1858. — Sad and solitary, in my 
lonely chamber, do I sit down to read over the last lines 
written in this book. Sad and solitary, for I feel, what 
is all the world to me now, without my dear partner ? 
In every place there is a void ; but he is at rest. If spirits 
can watch over the inhabitants of this earth, surely his 
spirit will watch over me and mine. 

How swiftly time passes by ; one week ago I was 
preparing for Yearly Meeting. Xow r it is over, and Friends 
dispersed. I look back with satisfaction to the freedom 
and harmonious feeling that prevailed. But Oh, for more 
heartfelt concern ! Silence and self-denial are greatly 
wanting. Were there not those present who would " sell 
doves ? " The dove-like nature cannot be sold for honor, 
nor for any other price, by man or woman. The Father 
gives it ; and its descending must be as it was upon the 
Holy Jesus — the " Spirit of God descended as a dove, and 
rested upon Him." I fear ministers forget sometimes, 
that the first duty is to love God, that by this redeeming 
love, we be constrained to love one another, and in love 
to reprove the evil-doer. 

Sixth Month 23rd, 1858. — This day I am fifty-seven 



Mary S. Lippincott. 81 

years old. My thoughts yesterday and last night, were 
turned back to years gone by ; to my dear mother and 
her trials and privations, during my infancy and child- 
hood ; the good Shepherd who careth for his flocks, pre- 
pared for her, better days and happier times ; she was 
able to bring up and educate her children, and for many 
years was spared to see them comfortabl}' settled in life, 
and engaged in useful and honorable callings. She 
spent her time pleasantly among tliem and her grand- 
children ; and as she advanced in years, was so situated 
as to be able to retire from labor, resting, and waiting 
her appointed time to depart. She calmly passed away 
in a good old age ; but she passed not away from my 
affectionate remembrance ; her countenance is vividly 
before me, and I need not any semblance to tell me how 
she looked. Dear to me was she to the close ; and I 
feel not yet severed from her, though she is unseen by 
my outward eye. 

Eighth Month 6th. — Again has the Angel of Death 
broken the tie that most closely bound me to life ; yes, 
more closely than all else ! Six months to-day, did my 
beloved partner close his earthly pilgrimage ; and I am 
left to plod on my weary, lonely way. 

Who can participate in my sorrow, for the young 
have their delights ? Oh ! the widow only knows the 
widow's grief. A companion in every way is nearly 
one's own self; and when such a one is taken, the bereaved 
one is surely stricken. Thou, Lord, carest for, and canst 
sustain me ; to Thee only can I look ! There is none 



82 Life aqd Letters of 

else in Heaven nor on earth to call upon ; for I feel as 
one alone, and desire none but Thee to be my stay and 
staff. Keep me in the littleness ; and, Oh ! enable me 
to get through the world honorably, that the Truth may 
not suffer, and that my peace may be secure. 

Remember my dear children, and stain the glory of 
this world in their view, that they may come to love the 
Truth, and the simplicity into which it leads. Thou 
knowest, O Father ! my heartfelt pain, because the 
testimonies dear to me as my own life, are so lightly 
esteemed, and so lightly spoken of. 

First Month ist, 1859. — Last night closed the sad- 
dest year of my life. This morning has found me still 
dwelling on the departed, and following to the Spirit 
world the host of dear ones, who were once lovely in the 
body, and who are now saints in Heaven. How the 
cords that bind to earth are severed, as our friends and 
kindred depart. Though lovely the succeeding genera- 
tion, as they come upon the stage of action ; though we 
can pleasantly mingle with them in social intercourse, 
yet we have passed from the season when their pleasures 
were ours ; from the friends who were our contemporaries 
— who felt as we felt, whose tastes and inclinations were 
in accordance with our own. It is wisely ordered to be 
so, that we may prepare for the evening of life, to retire 
in quietude to await our approaching change. The 
hurry and bustle of life over, the children reared, and 
prepared to act on their own behalf, it is our rightful 
privilege to become more and more lookers on and ad- 



Mary S. Lippincott. 83 

visers, than energetic laborers in business. And fast 
approaching the end of time, to dwell more upon eternity 
and the things connected with the Eternal world, and 
the joys to be entered upon, when this life is swallowed 
up in death, and the captive soul is liberated from the 
shackles of mortality. My dear, beloved partner, to me 
a husband and a father, thou art no more my spiritual 
adviser, aud my temporal help-meet ; thou hast left me to 
bear the conflicts of life alone, and unsheltered by thy 
presence ! By my side I find thee not, when tossed and 
tried, and I look around for a consoler and a friend. I 
retire alone and weep, and pour forth my plaints to Him 
who seeth in secret, and counteth the widow's tears, 
having compassion on her. Sometimes it seems as 
though the "brass" of "Heaven 1 ' aud the "iron bars" 
of " earth," prevented the penetration of sighs ; then 
again the outstretched arms of Omnipotence, invite my 
approach to Him for sustenance and shelter. O Father ! 
keep me in this hour of affliction deep and proving, 
when thus severed in my affections from a being so near 
and dear ; near and dear because of human ties, and 
doubly so from the precious spirit that dwelt in him and 
kept him in the Christian's path ! He is at rest ; the 
grave holds the body, lonely and beloved, but the spirit 
is not there. Shall my thoughts continue to hover 
around the narrow house, and penetrate into the dark- 
ness of the tomb, to see the lifeless body in its repose ? 
For a time may not this be permitted ? Gradually the 
thoughts must ascend with the part that lives forever, 



84 Life and Letters of 

and must dwell upon the joys that are partaken of in 
Heaven, and that have no end. There must they center, 
for there is the Christian's hope, and expectation, and 
perfection. Father, strengthen me, that there may 
terminate 1113- highest wish ! In the outward, clouds, 
and storm, and rain, cover the earth with dullness and 
shade — a likeness of 1113- inward state. Before the ap- 
proach of evening, the sun may stretch himself forth, 
and shine brightl)-, dispelling the clouds and darkness 
that surround him, and shedding a radiance on all 
below ; then may the spirits arise and gratitude ascend, 
with thanksgiving and praise, from the altar of many a 
heart, not even mine excepted. 

Third Month 27th, 1859. — Lonel}- and alone, this 
lovel} r spring day, I sit and think on the past pleasures 
of life. 

What is life ? A little while and it ends. The grave 
takes that that was animated and busy, because endowed 
with life ; but it has to be buried out of sight, because 
there is breath no longer. Alas ! what are we ? 

" An angel's arm can't snatch me from the gra\t-, 
Legions of angels can't confine me there." 

Tenth Month 3rd, 1859. — Entering again the sphere 
of duty, as the head of an Educational Institution, O 
may the arm of an Almighty Being sustain roe ! 

Sixth Month 23rd, i860. — This day consummates 
fifty-nine years of my earthly pilgrimage ; during this 
period niam* have been the vicissitudes, the bereave- 
ments, the trials ; vet in all and through all, so far, 



Mary S. Lippincott. 85 

have I been sustained ; and can bless my God that He 
has been with me through " ups and downs," and has 
made my way each succeeding year more pleasant and 
happy, because increasingly confirmed in the feeling 
that life is a blessing — that man, to be truly happy in 
this world and in that to come, must comply with the 
terms offered, even obedience to the Spirit of Truth in 
his own soul. A spirit sufficient to teach, to guide, and 
to open the understanding to receive all truth, both 
immediately and instrumentally, and to reveal the Fa- 
ther and the Son, whom to know is Life Eternal. And 
this Spirit is the Light, the Life, and the Power (it is 
called by various names) ; it is the dawning of the day 
of the Lord ; and whoever dwells in the light, keeping a 
single eye to it, will receive the " child born," the " son 
given," who is the Saviour and the Redeemer of the 
world. I am as fully comfirmed in this view, as I am 
that the sun shines in the fullness of his glory, shedding 
his beams upon the earth to sustain life, and to cause 
vegetation to come forth in its season for the sustenance 
of the animal kingdom. Clouds may obscure the out- 
ward sun at seasons, but they do not diminish his luster ; 
so sin may obscure the Divine Presence from our finite 
view, but it cannot change the nature of Him who is 
"light," and in whom is "no darkness at all." Oh! 
my soul, cling thou more and more to Him, and hence- 
forward let "obedience keep pace with knowledge," — then 
will all thy, seasons of " darkness be turned into noon- 
day ;" and thy God will be to thee, in the decline of life, 



86 Life and Letters of 

asa" morning without clouds," and will cause thy " sun 
to go down in brightness." For thou, Lord, hast been 
very good to me ; Thou hast always been my Friend 
and Father. I have had none to look to but Thee ; Oh ! 
be Thou with me, and keep me unto my life's end. 

Tenth Month 7th, 1S60. — Returned, last evening, 
from a neighboring Quarterly Meeting, pained at heart 
from the position of Friends. Oh ! how these are lifted 
up in an imagination that our own works will be " work- 
ing the works of God." Where is the clearness of vision 
to see that there is but (me place for Israel, and that is 
to dwell alone, with their minds spread in the valley 
before God, and not spread in their imaginations, on the 
heights around about. Oh ! they cannot see or under- 
stand, methinks ; the}^ will not see that there must be 
spiritual harmony, and spiritual unity ; nothing else 
will do. Ah ! it is surely now as in the days of Ahab, 
the man}- are believed, and Micajah rejected, proscribed 
and denounced ; yea, imprisoned to be fed on the bread 
and water of affliction ; but undoubtedly his prophecy 
will be fulfilled ; for God has not changed, neither has 
He changed his law in regard to this people, called 
Quakers. 

Sixth Month 23rd, 1861. — This day I am sixty 
years old. Yesterday I began to reflect upon passing 
time and events, calling up before my mental vision, a 
host of dear departed friends and relatives ; and especially 
a dear and honored mother who gave me. birth, and 
nurtured me in my infancy and youth. My spirit is 



Mary S. Lippiqcott. 87 

closely bound to hers, and my love knows no abatement, 
though fourteen lonely years (lacking a few days) have 
rolled over my head, since she passed out of this life. 
But thou art at rest, dear mother ; and many dear to thee 
and dear to me, have followed thee across the River of 
Death — amongst them, thy ever-kind son, my beloved 
husband, who has left me to tread alone a rugged path ! 
Well ! the Lord willed it so, and I have tried to submit, and 
say, " Thy will be done." O mother ! art thou conscious 
of my sighs and tears, as I view the world in its faded 
aspect — faded in my view ; for, in reality, it is in its 
pristine beauty ; but I, having become a lone pilgrim, 
living in the midst of a new, a young and buoyant gen- 
eration, have had my view extended beyond this transi- 
tory scene. And, Oh ! hadst thou lived to have beheld 
the desolation by war threatening our land, causing 
the hard earnings of thy dear son and thy grandsons, to 
be wrested from them, how low thou would have been 
bowed under the weight of sorrow ! Happy was it that 
thou was spared all this painful experience, taken away, 
as it were, from the evil to come ! 

Yet there is wisdom in all God's purposes ; and 
may we learn wisdom through strippings, whether these 
be of kindred ties, of loving friends, or of property — and 
be the better prepared to enjoy that felicity which is not 
derived from earth, but from Heaven alone ! 

Long has been my pilgrimage journey, though " few 
and evil" may have " been the days of my life ;" having 
had a large portion of happiness, as well as my full 



88 Life and Letters of 

share of deep sorrow. But, the Lord Almighty has 
never forsaken me, and in Him do I trust, looking unto 
Him to lead me onward and upward, till the life of the 
body is swallowed up in death, and the soul ushered 
into a new existence. In these troublous times, the 
future, as to the outward, is veiled from view ; none can 
reveal it but God alone by his " Light" within. 

Third Month ist, 1863.— My mind, through the 
night, and renewedly to-day, has been afresh convinced 
that whoever abides in God, knows his protecting and 
preserving power to encircle him on every side, keeping 
him secure from his enemies ; and I was engaged in 
prayer for my poor soul, that those Heavenly surround- 
ings ma}- be mine, whereby nothing shall ever overcome 
me, or draw me away from the light, life, and power of 
God. Oh ! that everything of an earthl}- nature in me, 
may give way before the arisings of the " Sun of Right- 
eousness ;" that my affections ma}- be placed on things 
above, and a greater willingness be wrought in me to 
obey the will of my Heavenly Father, in all things, 
even in promoting " peace " on earth and " good will " 
to men. 

As now surrounded, I am like a pent-up prisoner. 
O the weight of care and responsibility that rests upon 
me ; sources of sore trial, known only to myself and my 
God ! But in the midst of all the turnings and the over- 
turnings, the predominant feeling of my heart has been, 
u Thy will be done!" 

Third Month 2nd. — My feelings have been solemn 



Mary S. Lippincott. 89 

and retired for a few days and nights past, and renewed 
desires have been awakened that I might become wholly 
weaned from the world, and from looking to the things 
thereof, as affording any certain enjoyment. There is 
little to attract a mind pressed with care, and strug- 
gling with adversity. The buoyancy of spirits that 
used to be mine, return no more. The heart is pressed 
with a burden of responsibility without any earthly 
hand to remove it. Therefore, trusting in God, I must 
pursue my journey, hoping that the Truth may never 
be dishonored by me ; but that I may make an honest 
livelihood for myself and mine, and honorably discharge 
the trust reposed in me by my departed husband. 

Twelfth Month 31st, 1864.— With the close of this 
day terminates the year 1864. The outer world, as far 
as the eye can take cognizance of objects, is mantled in 
spotless white — an emblem of purity and innocence. 
May our spirits be so robed, as the year passes out of 
existence, and so welcome in the succeeding one, that 
its beginnings, to us, may be favorable to lives of piety 
and devotion. The day is calm and quiet, as though it 
were the closing scene of some auspicious event. And 
is it so ? To many it is, no doubt, as they are about to 
bid adieu to all transitory things, and enter into another 
state of existence. To those who have their loins girt 
about, and their rod and staff in readiness, such is a 
glorious and happy period ; for, putting off mortality, 
they lay aside the pains and conflicts attendant thereon ; 
while putting on a happy immortality, they enter into 
7 



90 Life and Letters of 

"joy unspeakable and full of glory." How great and 
varied have been the changes, since the beginning of 
the year just expiring! In the family circle, in Society, 
in neighborhoods, in the world at large ! Could a his- 
tory be furnished us, written by the pens of thousands, 
each giving in the line of his own experience, it seems 
to me, a Fountain of tears, seeking vent, would burst 
forth from eyes unwont to weep, and sighs would heave 
from hearts unapt to feel. How many have passed 
through the chambers of death' to the cold and silent 
grave ! Stalwart men, the bone and sinew of our coun- 
try — the hub and spoke of the wheel of commerce, of 
the loom, of agriculture, and of the various arts and 
sciences. Young men, the pride and promise of their 
parents' expectations, either mowed down in the field of 
battle, or wasted by some enfeebling pestilence ; or, too 
horrible to relate, starved in noisome prisons, before the 
eyes of cruel and hard-hearted beings in human form. 
And not a few of the aged patriarchs, who seemed to 
have belonged to a generation gone before ; the loving 
and gentle wife ; the mother and the infant in arms ; 
the little prattler ; 3^es, a great host, pursuing their 
journey through time, have been arrested in their course, 
and taken from this state of being. Many are the 
mourners, up and down in the land! And is not the 
feeling, with these, " Attempt not to comfort me ; I will 
go mourning all my days, until my gray hairs are 
brought down, with sorrow, to the grave?" Yet this 
sore mourning need not be, save on behalf of those who 



Mary S. Uppincott. 91 

have come to a premature end. They who have pursued 
a steady, straightforward course, who have followed their 
Holy Leader in the way of uprightness ; they whom He 
has lifted into life, and let them fall "just in the niche 
they were ordained to fill," all these having finished 
their day's work here, are taken hence in fulfillment of 
the decree, " Dust thou art, and unto dust shalt thou 
return," only to be transplanted into a happier clime. 

1868. — Alone as to the outward, and stripped 

of all that can possibly cheer the animal spirits, for 
there is a void that nothing can fill, no earthly object 
can supply. More than ten and a half years have rolled 
around since my beloved partner was called hence, and 
released from the shackles of mortality, and all the pains 
and conflicts of life, to be reinstated in his presence 
who spake the never-dying soul into existence by the 
word of his power ! Truly there is no other separa- 
tion that can compare with that of husband and wife, 
who are joined in the Lord — one in the body (in afflic- 
tion) and one in spirit. Happy might we conclude 
it to be, according to our human calculation, could these 
beginning at the time of their marriage, continue and 
end their journey together. Yes, go hand in hand 
through life, and hand and hand in their passage over 
that river that lands them on the side where stands the 
Celestial City, in which dwell the redeemed of the Lord. 
But that great God, in whose hands are man's destinies, 
has willed it otherwise. One is taken and another 
left, and sorrow and suffering, and many a bitter cup 



92 Life and Letters of 

are apportioned to the survivor. If these bereavements 
are received without murmuring, and esteemed as good 
gifts, they will be refining in their operation ; and will 
fit and prepare the soul to cast off all its cares and sor- 
rows, as filthy garments, in order to receive a robe that 
is pure and spotless, and owned as the "wedding gar- 
ment," when presented at the marriage chamber of the 
Lamb, as an invited guest. My partner, thou art not, 
and yet, thou art forever an angel in Heaven, a glori- 
fied spirit, forming one of that innumerable company, 
who surround the Throne of the Lord God and of the 
Lamb ! Oh ! how many loved ones are there, my equals 
in age, my companions, the guardians of my childhood 
and youth, the comforters of after years ; and my tender 
offspring ; and here am I, bereft indeed, weary and care- 
worn, hastening on 1113^ way to the close ! Bound to time 
and the cares of this world, for my dear children's sake, 
and perhaps, also, for the sake of the church. For, 
feeble as are my efforts, the prosperity of the church, 
and the spread of the ever-blessed Truth, are dearer to 
me than aught else in this world. Oh ! how I long to 
see the loving visitations of God extended to my own, 
and other dear children, that they may be seen coming 
up "adorned [as a bride] for her husband;" not in gay 
apparel, according to the fashions of a vain world, but 
in the simplicity produced when everything is formed 
according to the pattern shown in the Mount. 

Through life, ever since very young, the care of 
making a living has always devolved upon me, and now, 



Mary S. Lippiqcott. 93 

probably, always will ; though I have ever looked for- 
ward with hope and faith that rest and a quiet evening 
would be allotted me, preceding my departure from this 
changing scene. I look around and see many women 
who are exempt from such care ; who are provided for, 
and can use, at their pleasure, what they wish. They 
have time to devote to duties at or from home, without 
seeming to be sacrifices. Why it is thus 7 has to be left ; 
yes, I must believe it is wisely ordered for some good. 
I seem forced into business, that Truth may not suffer 
on account of any failing to receive their due, from 
losses which we had to endure. And my God knows 
that I have tried to labor honestly and diligently, that 
everything should be just and right. And yet, truly, 
amidst adversity, disappointment, in many a strait, a 
way has been made to move on, beyond any human cal- 
culation ; but it has been the " strait and narrow way," 
that I should not be elated by prosperity, nor too much 
cast down by adversity. It must be that the Most High 
has interposed when prospects were flattering, lest I 
should take my flight on the Sabbath-day ; and re- 
moved obstacles, when these were too great, lest in the 
winter season I might be off. May all the praise be 
unto the Lord, if I hold out unto the end, and may his 
name be exalted in the earth ! Oh ! my soul, trust thou 
still in God, who is the light of my countenance and 
my help ! 

If thou, Lord, wilt give me bread to eat and raiment 
to put on, and wilt be with me in the way I should go, 



94 Life and Letters of 

and finally, bring me home in peace, I will serve Thee 
with all the might and strength that Thou givest, for I 
have none of my own ! Thou kuowest, gracious Father, 
that this is my petition from day to day, and from year 
to year, and has been since early youth ; and yet, how 
feebly have I walked and worked, and how little good 
have I done in the world ! Oh ! that thou mayst be near 
to me supporting me amidst my trials and sore conflicts, 
which are deep and mauv ; and enable me to keep my 
head above the troubled waters, though the billows roll 
and threaten — for all forever is thine, in Heaven above 
and in the earth beneath. Ah ! how much of the time 
I have to wear my sackcloth underneath, that my coun- 
tenance may not be the index to a heart oppressed with 
care. May all these things refine my poor soul more 
and more, and prepare it to dwell forever in that Holy 
City that hath a sure foundation, whose " Builder and 
Maker is God." 

" In thy pavilion there is peace and rest, 
Thy saints are there, and are forever blest." 

First Month 3rd, 1875. — A beautiful day in the 
outer world, the trees and shrubs being covered with 
sleet. It was too slippery for our horse to take me to 
meeting, and dangerous for me to walk. My daughters 
went on foot. 

I have felt sensible that the Divine Presence is 
everywhere, and his love offered to every son and daugh- 
ter of Adam, the world over. 



Mary S. Lippincott. 95 

This has been au unusually opeu winter ; so that 
is seems as if a gracious Providence has favored the 
many poor and destitute in various parts of our country. 

L-ast Fifth-day we had a most excellent silent meet- 
ing. It seemed as if the Most High spread his wings 
of love and mercy over us all, and made us rejoice, and 
give adoration and praise to his adorable name. O such 
seasons ! how they renew our faith and trust in Him in 
whom we " live, move and have our being." I often 
feel to exclaim in spirit, " The earth is full of the glory 
of God." He is not afar off, but nigh. He tabernacles 
in man and fills all space. 

Sixth Month 23rd, 1875. — I am seventy-four years 

old to-day. Keep me, O Father, in thy love, forever. 

Amen ! 

Mary S. Lippincott. 



96 Life and Letters of 



CHAPTER III. 

LETTERS TO ONE YOUNG IN THE MINISTRY 



PART I 



A letter from a niece, this morning, says George 
and Catharine Truman are both ill — the former very 
ill ; she also speaks of the illness of other dear friends, 
and of the death of some. But, so does the race of men 
pass on and off the stage of life. When one is ready 
and waiting, happy and glorious must be the exit from 
a world of change, to a state of unchanging felicity. 
Then, the sadness to us who mourn the loss, rises into 
joy and thanksgiving ; and I hope that we may be able 
to rejoice in the end, by our sun's going down in bright- 
ness, and our souls arising into eternity. 

I tenderly sympathize with thee, dear A., in thy 
varied feelings. A diversified path is the poor pilgrim's 
portion on his way to the Celestial City. If he has not 
" Evangelist" to direct him and give him a " roll," he 
has a greater in his own soul — " Christ in von, the hope 
of glory!" The Life, Light, Wisdom, and Power! 
Everything to be as armor and as counsel, while a lone 



Mary S. Lippiqcott 97 

traveler, ofttimes in a weary land. No, not alone ! A 
Friend is near to urge him on ! 

When my " tent door I open wide," 
I hear his footsteps at my side, 
And hear his voice, to sweetly say 
Fear not ; — thy drooping- mind I'll stay. 
Thy God is near — not far away ! 

Abraham was proved, not in displeasure, but for the 
trial of his allegiance. See how he was blest in with- 
holding nothing ! All given up ! This is what we 
must know. Saying, " Here am I, O Lord, do with me 
as Thou wilt ! Then, as we become the clay, the Potter 
can do his work, with none to hinder ! He forms the 
vessels, refines them, fills them, then there is a pouring 
out for use ! How wonderful are his ways and his works, 
all in wisdom, for our greatest good. And when we are 
ready to conclude that He has hidden his face and with- 
drawn himself, He is not far off, his eye is open, watch- 
ing us as a loving parent watches a darling child ! 

Children must learn to work, without depending 
too much upon the parent to sustain them in inactivity ; 
so they have to be stripped at seasons, deeply tried and 
proved, that they may look around and see whether or 
not they have occupied their strength rightly. " My 
Beloved is mine and I am his ;" as much when sought 
and not found, as when He is seen, and his face is comely 
with smiles. Be of good cheer, my dear, tried one, the 
Light will shine, the clouds break away ! 



98 Life aqd Letters of 

" In quietness and confidence shall be your strength," 
is addressed sweetly to all the Lord's children in every 
condition of life. 

For, in this state, even the doubting and troubled, 
as was Elijah, hear and understand that the threatening 
Temptest, Earthquake and Fire, cannot destroy, over- 
whelm, or overturn, for God is not in them ! They are 
elementary, changeable ; but, in the still, small voice 
that follows, is this holy calm, this quietness and confi- 
dence. Oh ! how strong then, to wrap the " face in the 
mantle," and receive the counsel of God ; to go at his bid- 
ding, to instruct and edify his people, those who have 
" not bowed the knee to Baal, or kissed his image." 
" Rejoice evermore, and in all things, give thanks ;" 
because of the true declaration, fulfilled in the Chris- 
tian's experience, in this waiting state, — 

" God is coming, God is nigh, 
Hear ye, God is passing by !" 

And with his presence comes light, peace, and a " cer- 
tain evidence of Divine Truth." The soul bows, the 
will is subdued, and the heart-language is, " Not my 
will, but thine, O Father, be done !" In this passive, 
waiting state, He reaches forth his arm of love, in his 
own time, and his voice is heard, saying, " Arise and 
journey on !" 

In the Beginning, it was man)- days (or epochs),* 
ere the elements were brought together, and the right 
arrangement made, and the growth for the support of 



Mary S. Lippincott. 99 

life. Lo, in the new creation, out of chaos comes forth 
order, life, food, raiment, and ability to labor, under Di- 
vine guidance, and in the light. The night for repose, 
the day for labor ! The analogy between the outward 
and the inward is very striking. All the commotions, 
doubts, fears, and whatever else has been thy experience, 
dear child, has been the experience of those who have 
trodden the way of the cross before thee. All these have 
been allured into the wilderness, to be drawn away from 
all the glitter and vanity shining so enticingly in the 
open day ; there hath He " spoken comfortably" unto 
them ; and, staining the beauty of the first, they have 
become enamored of the second, the invisible glory and 
beauty not to be seen by the outward eye. 

For the elect's sake, these days of suffering and 
anguish of spirit, are shortened, when the work of 
preparation is effected, then it is enough. Wash me, 
make me clean; "purge me with hyssop," and " I shall 
be whiter than snow ;" pure within, holy ; in accordance 
with the injunction, "Be ye clean that bear the vessels 
of the Lord." I had, in my exercises of spirit, to tread 
the loneliness of my way, though I had counselors, by 
letter, who had entered into my condition, and their 
words were as the gently distilling dew, and refreshing 
rain. 

Our Father raises up servants to lead and instruct, 
as He did Moses to Israel. " Bear ye one another's bur- 
dens," and " be ye one another's helpers in the Lord." 
Help to cleanse, prepare and strengthen those whom the 



100 Life and Letters of 

Lord has chosen for his disciples. But the Master must 
send them, and show, them where, when, and what • to 
speak ; must give them their " Urim and Thummim," 
and be to them " mouth and wisdom, tongue and utter- 
ance." 

Man}- things pass through the mind ; all these must 
give place to the Master, who brings a solemn quiet, out 
of which springs up a language for the people. "It is 
not I that speak" but the " Father who is in me." His 
voice through his instrument, who is as a mouth for the 
Lord ! Trust Him who opens the way, enlightens the 
path ; is present to anoint, to bless, and to prosper his 
own work ; and to roll together the clouds and scatter 
them, that the " Sun of righteousness" may illumine 
heaven and earth. 

Although my health is nearly restored, yet it is so 
cold and icy to-day, that my children were unwilling for 
me to venture out to meeting. Not mingling as much 
as usual with Friends generally, as I am much at home 
because of the " imfirmities of the flesh," I often feel 
poor, and the streams very low ! I question myself 
whether there is a withering, yea or nay. There are 
many poor in the world, in " basket and in store" out- 
wardly ; there are many poor in " oil and wine," spiritu- 
ally, for their own refreshment, and to hand to the needy. 
But, if they know who has in store a supply, they can 
" ask in faith," and, in his own time, they will surely 
receive. There was something for the disciples to do at 



Mary S. Lippincott. 101 

the time of the miracle, and there is for us now. " Fill 
the water-pot up to the brim." What a placid surface — 
not a ripple, or there would be an overflow. All the 
thoughts (so unstable) gathered, still, the eye of faith 
directed to the Master — waiting. O the change ! The 
water agitated, threatening, overflowing ; changed into 
the " wine of consolation." Draw out now ; give to 
others, and " drink thy wine with a merry heart ; for 
God now accepteth thy works." 

It is no new thing to be tried ; to be tossed as with 
the tempest, and " not comforted." But the " Comforter" 
is nigh, saying to those who love Him, " Lo, I am with 
you alway, even to the end of the world." I could recur 
to the days of my espousals, when at seasons, I can sa}-, 
from experience, " I remembered God, and was troubled, 
I complained, and my spirit was overwhelmed ;" seasons 
when I sought my Beloved, and found Him not, for a 
long time. Ah ! many such seasons have been known ; 
but when my allegiance was proved, then He arose in 
his beauty, and his face beamed with love. Such is the 
experience of his children, that our dependence may be 
on an Almighty Arm, and that we may be led in a " new 
way," in the everlasting Light ; then we see for our- 
selves, without any doubt or uncertainty, what that good 
and acceptable sacrifice is, which the Lord requires of 
us ; not what man requires, but what man in Christ, 
assents unto. I often think how little heed is given, by 
the fashionable, church-going people, to the voice of the 
Spirit, impressions, silent prayer, heart-praises and melo- 



102 Life aqd Letters of 

dies. Therefore, book-religion, vocal prayer, and own- 
ing creeds, are substituted for practical religion. Oh ! 
what a privilege to be educated in a belief that we have 
Immanuel, God with us, ever, unless we wilfully go 
from Him, into disobedience ; and then He follows us 
to the very ends of the earth, whether we be rich or 
poor, saying, " Come unto me, all ye ends of the earth, 
and be saved." The more children are taught to look 
to this inward principle, the better it will be for the 
community at large. I believe First-day schools among 
Friends will be a blessing, if kept in their right place. 
Good seed, sown in innocent minds, must take root ! 

What will my dear A. think of my long silence, 
after such a letter as hers? Well, dear, it has not been 
for want of loving interest and sympathy ; but because 
of my close travail of spirit and sympathy with the sick ; 
in view of the approaching end of some, very near and 
dear to me. And that which was looked for, has come, 
and is past ; and I feel more links broken in the chain 
of affection ; not o\\\y one, but more ! Thus it is ; the 
circle brightened by loved ones, lessens rapidly, and ere 
long, my turn to be gathered will arrive, and, Oh ! then 
to meet the glorified spirits of the dear departed, where 
separations will be no more known, is, in prospect, some 
joy in the midst of grief. * :|: * O how many 
valued members of our Society we have lost since our 
last Yearly Meeting! Pillars in the church! I feel 
sad when I think how we shall miss them, though I 



Mary S. Lippincott. 103 

know it is all in wisdom. The mantle is left, if only 
caught up. But, thou may say this does not meet my 
case. My dear A., the Master tells thee his will, and 
gives thee wisdom. Be faithful in all humility, and He 
will clearly show thee thy stepping-stones in the true 
path. He will be thy bow and battle-axe, and will 
cover thy head in every day of conflict. 

As obedience is kept in, an enlargement will be 
known. For the little streams lead to " broad rivers and 
streams," in which the bark can move on in safety. 
Have faith ; it is the gift of God ! It will remove moun- 
tains, yes, and make an easy way through the deeps. I 
feel assured that thy mind is spread out to receive the 
dews and the showers of his love ; they will descend 
not only for thy refreshment, but for thy growth. No 
good thing does He withhold from them that love Him ; 
but He chooses his servants in the furnace of affliction. 
We are human and must know refinement, purification, 
sanctification, justification. The "just shall live by 
faith." Press on in the way cast up for thee ! Trust 
in the Everlasting Arms to support thee ! Pour out 
thy soul to Him, who is a friend close at hand, with an 
ear always open to hear, an eye to pity. I can read 
in thine, my own experience in the day of my espou- 
sals, when my Maker was my husband, and from the 
world I was divorced. Yes, dear, I often u ate my bread" 
in the bitterness of my soul, and trod a lonely way. 
Yet God was nigh and watched over me, and how mar- 
vellously did He make a way where I could see no way. 



104 Life and Letters of 

Words would fail to speak his praise ! May the " ark" 
be kept in Israel in safety ! 

I recur with heartfelt satisfaction to my attendance 
of Baltimore Yearly Meeting, from which we returned 
in safety, and with the sense of unspeakable peace, as 
the reward of obedience. Can we not all say, "it was 
good to be there." Our spirits were refreshed, our 
strength renewed ; and we can live on the food received 
( if abiding in humility) many days, or go forward through 
the wilderness, in the strength thereof. We had, indeed, 
an excellent meeting, interesting social minglings ; and 
under all, a current of love and good-will flowing, almost 
universally, an evidence of the " peace on earth, and 
good-will to men." 

I find a peculiar, heartfelt satisfaction as I ponder 
on these evidences of life ; so man}' seem under the 
preparing Hand, read}- to step into the ranks, at the 
word of Divine command, and carry on the good work 
in which others were engaged when called home. Oh ! 
these dear ones, how they are encircled by the Father's 
love ; and how wise, how tender, should the fathers and 
mothers in the Church be, so that they may shield these 
inexperienced ones, steady their faltering steps, and aid 
them to walk safely in the rugged ways that they may 
have to tread. Some have entered early, others later, 
into the harvest-field, but each one is entitled to the 
" penny ;" enough to procure the Bread and Water of 
Life — sufficient to satisfy the hungry soul. 



Mary S. Lippincott. 105 

Some of the dedicated have always had suffering, 
in greater or less degree, for their portion — not for them- 
selves alone, but for others. So it remains to be, if we 
are poured out for others, so to fill up our measure 
for the " body's sake." I have partaken of the cup of 
suffering also ; but the good Father has not forsaken 
us, else where would have been our hope ? So hope on, 
trust on, dear one ; the Lord's presence can make amends 
for all other privations. He has rich blessings in store. 

I know, dear friend, thy conflicts have been many, 
and will be. Trials are added by the disposition to 
remove landmarks, and to do away with all mystery, 
as they say! And to divide what God has joined to- 
gether, "Jesus and Christ!" Such efforts scatter and 
divide. I have no sympathy with such views ; neither 
do I believe that Friends will be instrumental in gath- 
ering to the true sheepfold if they depart from original 
ground. There is no Scripture for Jesus being the son 
of Joseph. Besides, my own instruction by revelation, 
as I sat in a meeting about fifty-two years ago, was in 
entire conformity with the Scripture account that the 
" prepared body" had no father but God — a " body hast 
thou prepared me," sent for a special purpose; Divinity 
in humanity ! A Saviour to the Jews, and his mission 
was to lead into a higher dispensation. The Law and 
the Prophets having been fulfilled in Him, then the 
visible Jesus was removed, that a spiritual head of a 
more spiritual religion might be known. Can not an 



106 Life and Letters of 

Almighty Being perform any work ? Is not his power 
unlimited ? Is it wise in man to try to remove the con- 
necting link in the great economy of God, in restoring 
a fallen race ? There is no flaw in God's works ! How 
gradual are his mercy and long-suffering ! And what 
encouragement to a fallen race that He sent into the 
world, one tempted in all things, } r et never yielding — 
inviting us to trust in the same Power to keep us. 

I cannot write much, for I am not well enough ; 
but I must say that I am very sony that there is such 
a desire for reform as to try to reform Faith, which is 
God's gift. " By grace ye are saved, through faith, 
and that not of yourselves, it is the gift of God." If we 
doubt the emphatic testimony of the Scriptures, in what 
shall we have faith ? In the Spirit only ? That is true, 
but we must have speech also — some channel of commu- 
nication. If Jesus /^Joseph's son, why look to his say- 
ings more than to other men's ? Or, how hold Him up 
without being idolaters ? Oh ! that we would get into 
the Gospel stream, and keep in it ! No distrust, no 
doubt, no contending doctrines there ! Christ would 
guide our little barks safely, and still the threatening 
storms. 

The more I read and hear of philosophical investi- 
gations, designed to remove a belief in miracles, and 
in the account of the outward advent, the death and the 
resurrection of Jesus Christ, the firmer is my faith in 
the truth and the reality of the record, as in the Holy 



Mary S. Lippincott. 107 

Scriptures. How can any one who believes in God 
(who has all power in Heaven and in earth) doubt any 
miracle, at any time or age of the world. Who would 
dare to limit his power ; the finite to limit the Infinite. 
There is no difficulty, it seems to me, in reconciling 
occurrences, if we are steadfast in our faith that God's 
ways are higher than man's ways, and his thoughts 
than man's thoughts. " God is Light," and as we re- 
main, as men, in our true position, upright, our reason 
unclouded — not perverting God's ways, nor disobeying 
his laws — our minds clear and thoughts pure, his light 
will shine upon us to give us to know the Truth. To 
see things not before revealed to us, to behold the 
angels (ministering spirits) ascending and descending 
to feed us with food convenient for us ; and the Son 
and sent of the Father coming in love inwardly, as 
truly as He came outwardly, to redeem us from all 
evil ; to lift us up with Him ; and to give us an inheri- 
tance among all them that are sanctified ; and herein 
we see the end of the outward, the work accomplished. 
How great the danger of doubting ! Those who doubt, 
and cavil, searching for errors, faults, inconsistencies, 
can always find them, in everything ; real in some things, 
imaginary in many, and wholly imaginary in Chris- 
tianity. Inconsistencies appear in too many professed 
Christians ; but the religion of Jesus Christ is not blem- 
ished thereby. It remains pure. 

John Woolman saw and heard " certain evidence of 
Divine Truth ;" and I have long believed this. Atheists 



108 Life and Letters of 

and skeptics have long tried to dig and undermine the 
Rock on which Truth rears its edifice, but they have 
failed ; I hope and trust they ever will fail. 



PART II. 



LETTERS TO HER NEPHEW, ROBERT SHOEMAKER. 

Moorestowx, Ninth Month 18th, 1847. 

My Dear Nephew : — I was in the city yesterday, on a 
Committee, but having to sit there from ten o'clock until 
three, I had no time to call, or to attend to some other 
things that I wished to. 

We are all well, and have been for the most part 
through the summer, which is cause for thankfulness. 
The country looks beautiful ; the corn and buckwheat 
crops are promising, the pasture is excellent, and the 
conditions are cheering to the heart of the farmer. How 
much we have to be thankful for, and yet how little 
evidence of an humble acknowledgment of the good gifts 
of the Great Giver, do we discover in the busy world 
where men are wasting and destroying these good gifts, 
and furiously slaying their fellow-beings merely to get a 
little more ! How long will these things be ? When 
will men learn wisdom by the things that the}- suffer ? 
Oh, that Christian professors everywhere would unite in 
promoting the peaceable religion of Jesus. Then how 
sweetly should we dwell together, where joy and glad- 



Mary S. Lippincott. 109 

ness would be heard, and the voice of melody. The 
true Christians in every denomination know no feeling 
other than that of love : toward the vilest sinner they 
feel that love which induces pity. Oh, what an example 
did our dear Redeemer set us, in eating with publicans 
and sinners, that by this condescension he might gain 
their love and convert them, by calling them to repent- 
ance. Oh, that we might pray unto the Lord of the 
harvest, that He would send forth faithful laborers into 
his harvest-field, that there might be more of a gathering 
to the flock and family of Christ — for these are to be 
found in every nation, kindred, tongue and people ; and 
however different their profession, they are all one in 
Christ. They are one with the Father and with the 
Son, and in this oneness they have fellowship one with 
another. Ah ! how soon will that period arrive when it 
will matter not to us concerning anything but this — 
that our names are found written in the " Lamb's book of 
Life;" for these, and these only, are entitled to an entrance 
into the joy of our Lord. 

I remain with much love to thyself and family, and 
with desires for your welfare, affectionately thy aunt, 

Mary S. Lippincott. 

Sixth Month ist, 1879. 

My Dear Nephew : — The weather is very warm these 

last two days. I had pleasant weather while in New 

York, also a very satisfactory Yearly Meeting, and much 

affectionate kindness from Friends. I parted from them 



110 Life and Letters of 

feeling that it would probably be my last visit, and I feel 
peaceful and thankful for the man)- favors received, and 
for none more than for the loving care of my Heavenly 
Father, who, I hope will sustain me till He takes me 
home. I also hope that He will care for mine and for 
all others, when I am gone, for I feel a desire that all 
souls should flee to God for refuge, and be saved. 

We miss our horse much ; but I am thankful to be 
able to walk to meeting. To-day I had a ride part way, 
and walked the remainder ; a good meeting rewarded 
me. 

We are all three of us troubled with aches and 
pains, but I often count my favors and blessings, and 
try to hope ahead. There are many trials and adversi- 
ties, but there is also an assurance that there is a joy 
to cover all these, if only we are redeemed and made 
partakers of God's salvation offered to all. 

I hope you are all well, also thy brothers and their 
families, to whom love abounds in my heart. 

" I love my own dear kin and kith 
With love that is no sham nor myth." 

Thy affectionate aunt, 

M. S. L. 

Moorestowx, Eleventh .Month 25th, 1879. 
My Dear NepJiew : — Thanks for the nice pictures, 
received yesterday. They are excellent likenesses of a 
dear nephew and niece, as I hope ever to be privileged 
to call you, while I am tottering on to the goal which 
lies at the end of my pilgrimage. 



Mary S, Lippiqcott. Ill 

We are much tied at home with business that claims 
our time and our thoughts — yes, more so than I would 
wish in old age ; but perhaps it is better to keep in 
the harness till the end, and so " to wear out, rather 
than to rust out." I hope never to grudge what I have 
freely done for others, but we have met with some losses 
which are hard to bear ; for had they not occurred I might 
have been relieved from care and anxiety long ere this. 

I am like Jacob ; I like the Shoemakers and always 
did ; and it does me good to step into the store and look 
upon you as you are engaged in business ; you all look 
as if you are trying to do right, in every sense of the 
word, and that is what constitutes true happiness and 
usefulness — to help yourselves and to serve others. This 
is so in lawful business, and in higher duties as well. 
A Friend once said, " We are all servants, from the 
highest in authority down ;" and so it seems to be. To 
serve well in our temporal things, and to accommodate 
others, evinces that we are faithful stewards over tem- 
poral goods, and to such are given " durable riches." 
How happy would it be for mankind if it were always 
so, for then there would be no over-reaching, no default- 
ing ; but the observance of the Golden Rule would enable 
us all, as "brethren to dwell together in unity." Oh, 
how often and increasingly I rejoice because the good 
Father loves the human family, and reaches out his 
hand to gather all ; to raise even out of the pit of pollu- 
tion, and to place the feet upon a rock, which rock is 
Christ. " How often would I have gathered " you, but 



112 Life and Letters of 

"ye would not." This is the pathetic language to all 
poor unconverted ; and to all backsliders for whom Chris- 
tians must be poured forth in spiritual prayers. I be- 
lieve throughout Christendom, prayers ascend and reach 
the ears of the Lord of Sabaoth, that the way of salvation 
may be known, and the wanderers return and live. 

The recent visit that we had from thy brothers and 
their wives, with the dear little ones, was truly pleasant 
to us. I recurred to your father in his youth, when he 
was in business at grandfather's, and we all there. Then 
and always, he was as a brother to me. He was very 
conscientious, kept out of harm's way, and was a good 
example to young people. Yes ! I loved your parents, 
and I hope to meet them in eternity. May we be gath- 
ered there when done with time — gathered in one com- 
pany ; none missing from the family circle surrounding 
the throne of the Lord God and the Lamb forever. 
Thy loving aunt, 

M. S. L. 

MOORESTOWN, First Month 13th, 1880. 
My Dear Nephew : — I have desired that I might 
have strength, mentally and physically, some time soon 
to call to mind and write down many names of the 
former members of our families, and some others who 
used to be prominent, active inhabitants and useful 
citizens of Shoemakertown. They were man}-, and were 
well known as an intelligent people ; and many of them 
were well educated, and were not inferior in business 



Mary S. Lippincott. 113 

ability, in practical piety, and in religions observances 
to their worthy successors. Such is my belief, and if 
any of my age remain, they will, I think, sanction my 
view and confirm my testimony. And the harmony and 
good feeling ! Why, I often recur to my childhood, when 
from all that I heard and saw, I thought of no faults in 
any, except occasionally a rare case of intemperance was 
seen. Visiting was frequent, and evenings together 
were passed pleasantly and instructively ; for the con- 
versation would be upon the better times since the 
Revolution, the improvements in schools, in farming, 
fruit-raising and other branches of business ; also the 
prosperity of A., B., and C, who were doing so well, &c. 
There were comfortable homes with well polished fur- 
niture, and nice " rag carpets;" parlors with a nicer 
kind, and pretty furniture ; and then the welcome — 
yes, the welcome ! And the easy, cosy mingling ! How 
sweet is the remembrance. There was thy double great- 
aunt, Nancy Leech, descended from the royal Stuarts. 
Seated in her ebony chair she looked like a queen, to 
whom her husband, children and domestics delighted 
to do honor; and she was worthy of it. Her family 
were trained in ways of true politeness. Thy great- 
grandmother Martin was another lady. Uncle John 
Shoemaker's family, and his sons John and Charles 
and their families, and many, many others, including 
what are left of their descendants. Thy great-grand- 
father (my grandfather), Benjamin Shoemaker, was a 
gentleman, and was regarded as such, and highly es- 



114 Life and Letters of 

teemed by Friends and others who visited at his house, 
and were friends to him as he was to them. It is now 
a long time since these worthy predecessors and their 
not less worthy neighbors, passed away, but their char- 
acters, their worth, their gentleness, and their Christian 
deportment remain with me ; and I often consider it a 
privilege to have been reared with such, and to have had 
the opportunity of hearing the instructive conversation 
of so man}- of them, as I sat beside my venerable and 
much respected grandsire. 

Oh ! how it animates me to recur to the past, and to 
thy dear father in his youth, and a little later to thy own 
dear mother ; so kind, and affectionate and bright. How 
many pleasant hours I spent with her. 

How I am bound to my kin, and to those whom they 
have chosen as helpmeets. Farewell. 
Thy attached aunt, 

M. S. L. 

Moorestown, Fifth Month 31st, 1880. 
My Dear Nepheiv : — I feel lonely to think that B. 
S. and the others have gone to stem the great water, and 
to pass the summer in a foreign land ; and I have an 
idea it is a stripping time with thee and all the rest, 
nearly allied and cheered by their presence, as well as 
with the sons left at home. I hope that it is right, that 
it ma} T prove a benefit, and that they may safely return, 
and not encounter floating ice-bergs on their way. The 
day [of their sailing] was auspicious, so far as weather 



Mary S, Lippincott. 115 

was concerned, and to ns who must remain at home, the 
showers have been refreshing. 

While the weather is beautiful, there are cares and 
trials that sometimes weigh heavily, and there is a long- 
ing for some one to confer with. The financial pressure 
affects more or less all who are engaged in business, and 
I have to assume my share. I do not want to complain, 
for though I have had a long and checkered journey, I 
have never been forsaken. I often turn to my dear kin, 
with longings to be more with them during the little 
time allotted me here. 

Love to thy dear self, to A., and to your children. 
Thy affectionate aunt, 

M. S. L. 

Moorestown, Sixth Month 29th, 1880. 

My Dear Nephew : — I intended to write thee on 
my seventy-ninth birth-day, 23rd instant, but I first 
wrote to Benjamin, and then my head ached so that I 
deemed it not prudent to write more that day, and the 
extreme heat and indisposition have prevented since. 

I have not been out since First-day week, though I 
hope I am better this morning, having slept more last 
night than for some time previously. 

Such a drought and heated term in Sixth Month, 
none can remember ever to have known before. We try 
to keep as bright as we can, and J. is remarkable for 
bracing up. 

I had an interesting letter from Benjamin, written 



116 Life and Letters of 

on the second and third insts. I presume that he and 
many others partook some of sea-sickness, and probably 
more after he wrote. How many accidents we hear of, 
but most of them nearer home. How thankful I feel 
when I hear that the dear ones are safe and comfortable, 
and I trust, thankful, too — with all the withholding and 
the blighted prospects — for food and raiment. These 
will be needed a little while longer to sustain and clothe 
the poor body, and then it must return to the earth. 
But if the soul is only safe, and fitted for immortality, 
Oh ! what a favor from that great, good Father who holds 
all — except those that fall away — in his everlasting 
arms of love. May He enclose thee and thine, me and 
mine, and all those who love Him, and who delight to 
think upon his goodness and mercy. And, Oh ! that 
all the wanderers and prodigals would " return, repent, 
and live." Happy would it be for such in life, and 
happy would it be for them in death ; because the cap- 
tive spirits would return, in peace, to God who gave 
them. Love to A. and to your children. 
Thy loving aunt, 

M. S. L. 



PART III 



LETTERS TO HER GRANDSON. 

[The boy, the youth, the young man, the husband, 
and the father, to whom the following letters were ad- 



Mary S. Lippincott. 117 

dressed, was the only child of her husband's deceased 
son. His name was the same as that of his father — 
Daniel P. Lippincott. Most of his married life was passed 
in St. Louis, Missouri.] 

Third Month 21st, 1859. 

My Dear Grandson : — I received thy very accepta- 
ble letter duly, but have been prevented by company, 
from replying. We are all pleased with the prospect of 
seeing thee soon. We should like thee to come to our 
house to stay until some other arrangement is made. 

All thy friends manifest a great deal of interest in 
thee, and want thee to do well, and to be comfortable 
and happy. 

I do not want thee to go into a store, as I would 
not choose that business for thee ; it is so confining for 
those who have been used to the open air. Thy present 
need is to go to school, and get a thorough education. 
I am pleased to see thy good penmanship, and w T ell com- 
posed letters. I hope thee will keep well. 

I shall be glad to have thy likeness when thee 
comes. 

Take good care of thyself, and try to keep well. I 
shall be glad to hear from thee if thee has time to write 
again before coming. 

Farewell. Jane and Margaret unite in love to thee. 

I remain thy affectionate and well-wishing grand- 
mother. 

Mary S. Lippincott. 



118 Life arid Letters of 

Fifth Month 16th, 1859. 

My Dear Grandson : — I received thy acceptable 
letter while in Philadelphia, attending our Yearly Meet- 
ing, and as I am Clerk of the Meeting I could not get 
time to write and tell thee how glad we always are to 
hear of thy welfare. 

We are all pleased to learn that thee has employ- 
ment, and hope thee will keep well and be able to fulfill 
thy part pleasantly. 

Our Yearly Meeting was large (more than three 
thousand in attendance), and was a good, comfortable 
meeting throughout. It held nearly a week. To-day 
we are again on duty in school. The weather is lovely, 
clear and cool, and the country looks flourishing. 

17th. — The birds are singing very sweetly, they 
and myself being about all that appear to be up, in our 
immediate neighborhood. Our family mostly allow me 
the privilege of being alone a good while, mornings. 
The}- love morning naps. 

We often think of the pleasant time thee spent with 
us, and hope the like will occur again. 

I hope thee will continue to make a selection of 
reading that is profitable and elevating to the mind and 
morals ; for there are man}- publications emanating from 
the press that are no better for the mind than poison 
is for the body. Their contents sicken the moral sense, 
and then destroy it. Refined, substantial books, accom- 
panied by virtuous and good society, shed a happy and 
beneficial influence on the character of the young, which 



Mary S. Lippincott. 119 

often proves a blessing through life. Correct principles 
early imbibed, and habits according therewith, seldom 
leave us ; neither is it in the power of the vicious to 
overthrow them. Very rarely, at least, does it occur that 
such are swerved from their purpose of doing well. I 
hope that thine may be a useful and happy career. Thy 
business campaign was early attempted ; but an over- 
ruling Providence is the care-taker of his children, and 
I trust and hope that He will have thee in his keeping, 
and guide thy footsteps aright through life ; then it 
will matter not on what part of the globe thy career is 
finished, thy end will be peace. 

With love from all the family, including myself, I 
remain thy affectionate grandmother, 

M. S. L. 

Eleventh Month 20th, 1859. 
I hope this will find thee as cheerful and happy as 
I left thee, and as well in health, for I am interested in 
thy welfare and improvement, as much, I believe, as if 
thou wert my own son. Dear child ! I feel easy about 
thee, believing thou art placed in a very favorable situa- 
tion, and I hope thy progress in study will be satisfactory 
to thyself and to thy teacher. I was much pleased while 
in the school, with the appearance of so nice a company 
of youths, and I do hope you will be an advantage to one 
another. Self-government is better than observance of 
rules (though this is right) for few rules are needed where 
each one controls himself. 



120 Life aqd Letters of 

I had a pleasant journey home, and found all well 
and getting along nicely. 

We had an interesting lecture on Fifth-day ; expect 
to have them once in two weeks. 

I had a severe turn with my head one day, but it 
passed off; for which I feel thankful. We are having 
lovely weather, after much rain. 

A. R. was here yesterday, and seemed glad to hear 
of thy safe arrival there [at Gwynedd Boarding School]. 
I think thee will love all the family. I hope thee will 
not feel discouraged if thee is not able to answer all the 
questions, for thee is young, and I have no doubt will 
get along well, time being afforded thee. I want thee to 
tell me about thy studies, and whatever else there is of 
interest. I feel a deep interest in the family and the 
school. How do you spend your time between schools ? 
What do you play ? Exercise is very essential. 

I have had a good deal of company, and do not feel 
as if I had much to sa}-, for I have interruptions while 
writing. With love and desires for thy welfare, I am 
thy affectionate grandmother, 

M. S. L. 

Eleventh Month 30th, 1859. 
I received thy acceptable letter and was pleased to 
notice the improvement in thy penmanship and spelling. 
We have delightful weather, and anticipate a mild win- 
ter's morning, when we arise to hail another day. We 
have been favored for the most part with the privilege of 



Mary S. Lippincott. 121 

lovely walks over the green fields, and through the woods 
to gather mosses, and other relics of the season, that 
remain uncovered by snow, and unbitten by the frosts 
that blight so much. 

Twelfth Month ist. 

A fine morning, but hardly light enough to see to 
write. I suppose another day will decide the fate of 
poor John Brown. We can form some idea of the seem- 
ing security of the South, by the array of military men 
on such an occasion. To my mind it conveys the idea 
that our favored government rests on a slender basis. 
How Friends feel at the South we may conjecture. 
Those with whom I correspond have not yet made the 
first allusion to the subject in any of their letters. A 
Friend, just returned from Virginia, says that in Lou- 
den County, some think they will be ordered to leave 
the State. The measures of the Governor of Virginia 
seem like a challenge for a civil war. The result we 
must await. I mourn over our country, that we have, 
with our eyes open, traveled the direct road to such a 
crisis. 

The institution and perpetuation of slavery on the 
one hand, and the zeal on the other (always manifested 
more or less to meet wrong) have provoked this ebulli- 
tion, and where is it to stop ? Well would it be for the 
United States if our rulers, peaceably, should remove 
cause and effect : then would this be the most favored 
nation of the earth, and an asylum for the oppressed 



122 Life and Letters of 

from other lands. But at this time great prudence be- 
comes the people of the North. 

I reverently trust that more can be affected by " fer- 
vent, effectual prayer," than by freedom of speech, to 
change the hearts of those who are agents in the iniqui- 
tous system of slavery. Much was effected in days of 
old in that way, and the Supreme Ruler of the universe 
makes use of men now for a wise and glorious purpose — 
even to stay the flood of iniquity by wielding the sword 
of the spirit, to slajr spiritual foes, enemies to the Truth, 
to the people, and to God. Poor John Brown ! who can 
pronounce judgment upon him ? He may have thought 
as Saul did, that he was doing God service. Surely 
he has been prompted by very many, and I trust his 
rash act may be pardoned, and he go to rest. 

Please give my love to the family, take good care 
of thyself, and be a good boy; these two injunctions 
embrace all that is needed. I am always glad to hear 
from thee. 

Thy affectionate grandmother, 

M. S. L. 

Twelfth Month 20th, 1859. 
I am pleased to see thy improvement in penman- 
ship and spelling, and infer that thy progress in other 
branches corresponds. I feel very sure that thy situation 
is eligible to receive a good education, and that even- 
attention will be paid to polish thee, as thee is growing 
to the age of a young man. In America now, juveniles 



Mary S. Lippincott. 123 

soon reach a responsible time of life, when the appellation 
of young man falls pleasingly upon their ears. 

I was favorably impressed with the appearance of 
thy schoolmates, and I trust that you form an agreeable 
" social circle," and that by your gentlemanly deport- 
ment, and accommodating manners, you may be an 
ornament to the school, and a comfort to those who 
preside as guardians over you, while there. It yields 
much more real satisfaction in after years, to look back 
to school-days with the consciousness that they were 
well-spent — industriously and profitably — than it would 
to have to remember idle freaks, and antic performances 
that made the teacher's care doubly onerous, and caused 
the students many unpleasant deprivations. Innocent 
recreation and amusement I always encourage in the 
young ; it is good for their bodies and strengthening to 
their minds. 

I am obliged for the paper ; those exercises are use- 
ful in calling out your energies, and promoting care and 
precision. Do thy best, but be not too anxious to per- 
form too much. Time will be afforded thee to accom- 
pany application "up the hill of science." At thy age 
it is not wise to tax thy brain too much. 

I am glad you all keep well, and that thee is happy. 
Accept my love and believe me to be thy well-wishing 
grandmother. 

M. S. L. 



124 Life and Letters of 

First Month 30th, i860. 

I find that it will not do to depend upon others to 
write to thee, so if I do not tire thee with my letters I 
shall continue to tell thee how we are and how we fare. 
D. W. has been extremely ill, so that at one time we 
despaired of his recover}- ; but he is now convalescent, 
and likel}' to be well again. It was a severe case of 
pneumonia. Other relatives and friends in usual health. 

We have very cold weather and some sleighing. Thy 
letters evince improvement in both penmanship and com- 
position. I hope thee may feel encouraged to persevere, 
but to proceed carefully, and not be anxious to acquire 
more than is best in a limited time. In ascending a 
steep mountain, it is best not to go too fast at the begin- 
ning, and thus spend the strength which will be needed 
for the latter and more arduous portion of the journey. 
Health of mind and body must be attended to — neither 
should be over-taxed. Does thee need any additional 
clothing for this very cold weather ? 

I am pleased to learn that thee is so happy there 
amongst kind friends. I am very easy about thee, 
knowing thee is so well cared for and protected. A. R. 
was here yesterday. I gave him thy letter to read. He 
seemed much pleased, for he feels a deep interest in thee 
and in thy improvement. 

A man has been tried for murder at Mount Holly 
Court, and has been convicted and sentenced to be 
hanged. I am sorry that an execution is to take place 



Mary S. Lippincott. 125 

so near ns. It would be dreadful even if far off, and yet 
it is distressing to think of the murders committed. 

I do not go to the Town Hall to hear lectures, as I 
do not feel like going with the crowd ; but if I were 
near enough to ycm I should like to hear some of your 
performances. I presume thee does not now fail to an- 
swer questions in grammar, unless thee is embarrassed. 

I fear my letter may seem dry to thee, but thee will 
have to excuse it, remembering that I am old, and that 
I do not see so many things to animate as when I was 
young. Especially is this the case since I have been 
deprived of the company of thy dear grandfather, who 
was everything to me to make life comfortable. 

With much love to thee, and with desires for thy 
best welfare in every way, I am thy affectionate grand- 
mother, 

M. S. L. 

Second Month 7th, 1S60. 

My Dear Grandson : — I have been gratified with 
seeing thy different letters to notice the improvement, 
as well as to be informed of thy health and happiness. 

The inclemency of the weather prevented J from 

getting to see thee when she went to Philadelphia. 

We are progressing pleasantly and harmoniously, 
and I think we never enjoyed school more than we do 
this term. 

I expect to go to Virginia ; leaving home on Sixth- 
day next, to be absent perhaps nearly two weeks. 



126 Life and Letters of 

Has thee been able to keep warm out of doors these 
cold da}'S ? I hope so, for it is needful to use plenty of 
exercise in the fresh air, and to be clad so as not to take 
cold. 

I want thee not to be too anxious to acquire a great 
deal of knowledge in a short time. Remember thy age, 
and that there must be a physical constitution forming 
while an education is being acquired. These should be 
balanced, that a sound mind may inhabit a sound body. 
An eminent scholar would not like to embark on a 
voyage of discovery in a rickety old vessel ; the vessel 
should be properly cared for, as well as the passenger, 
in order that both may be preserved. 

I send thee a little " pin money," though not to buy 
pins. With kindest love to thee I am thy affectionate 
grandmother, 

M. S. L. 

Third Month 6th, i860. 
My Dear Grandson : — I returned on Second-day 
from the South. Left my brother and sister indisposed, 
though better. My neice, C. H. M., buried her little 
son while I was there. The other quite ill with same 
disease, a catarrhal affection. I enjoyed mingling with 
my friends and relatives ; everybody seemed glad to see 
me. I was not afraid even to go near to Harper's Ferry. 
The Quarterly Meeting was unusually large ; perhaps 
the excited people wanted to hear whether or not Friends 
would have anything to say about John Brown. They 



Mary S. Lippincott. 127 

heard no allusion to him or to politics. We desire noth- 
ing but to persuade men to be Christians. 

I do not feel able to write much to-day as I am 
weary from traveling. My journey was performed in 
cars, stages (over bad roads), carriages, sleighs, and 
once on horse-back. I do not enjoy the traveling part of 
a visit. 

I hope thee keeps well, and gets along comfortably 
to thy own and thy teacher's satisfaction ; then the days 
passed there will be recurred to with pleasure. Please 
give my love to the two families and to such of the 
students as remember me. I desire the welfare of all. 

With love I am thy affectionate grandmother, 

M. S. L. 

Third Month 26th, i860. 

My Dear Grandson : — We have been much engaged 
and have had a good deal of company. I have not, how- 
ever, been unmindful of thee, for I think of thee often, 
and desire thy health, happiness and progress in study. 
I was interested to hear that your examination was com- 
ing off soon. Interested, because I hoped it would prove 
satisfactory to all. 

My dear child, I do very much want to see thee, 
and I expect thee wants a little recreation at home. It 
speaks well for thee to allude so favorably to thy teach- 
er, to the school, and to every accommodation there. I 
think thee will always be able to recur with pleasure to 
the time passed there, and I feel grateful to the care- 
takers of that Institution for their attention to thee. 



128 Life and Letters of 

To-day it seems as if winter were returning. We 
have had the cheering music of birds from the woods, 
and frogs from the waters, adding to the interest of a 
ride or a walk. These now must hush, and await the 
termination of the snow-storm and the howling wind. 
What a change from yesterday ! So it is often in the 
spring of the year. 

I close with love to thee and to the two families, 
and remain thy affectionate grandmother, 

M. S. L. 

[In the spring of i860, Gwyuedd Boarding School 
was discontinued, and D. P. L. went to Freeland, Mont- 
gomery County, Pennsylvania, to school.] 

Eighth Month 17th, i860. 

I hope, my dear D., that thee will keep well, and 
be able to progress to thy own satisfaction, and to do 
well every way. I know that such is thy desire and 
intention, and I have confidence to believe thee will 
make every effort in thy power. [In a former letter 
she had expressed her regret at his having to leave 
Gwynedd, and go among strangers.] 

Now, do not get disheartened if any tasks are hard, 
or if thee does not come up to what thee could wish. I 
have no doubt of thy success ; and — health permitting — 
I have confidence in the prospect that thee will be able 
to engage, at the proper time, in some useful and profita- 
ble business. I. and J. join me in love to thee, and in 



Mary S. Lippincott. 129 

our interest for thee. I hope that thee may ever find in 
ns friends who desire to do the little we can to pave thy 
way to manhood. I trust my prayers will ever unite 
with thine, that blessings may rest upon thee, and the 
meek and quiet spirit of thy father be thine. Farewell, 
Thy affectionate grandmother, 

M. S. L. 

First Month 2nd, 1861. 

My Dear Grandson : — Did thee ever see more beau- 
tiful days than were the last of last year, and the first 
of this ? The snow, mantling earth and trees, and the 
sun by day, and the moon and stars by night, making 
everything glisten with gem-like grandeur. 

To-day is the time appointed by President Buchanan 
for fasting and prayer. I believe that the Most High 
requires of us, not for a day, to " fast for strife, and de- 
bate, and to smite with the fist of wickedness," but to 
pray without ceasing, day by day. If the people were 
righteous, and engaged in prayer, it would avail ; for 
"the fervent, effectual prayer of a righteous man avail- 
eth much." But how different when people lay down 
their war-like weapons, their war-like speeches, their 
strife and debate, for a day, to bow down the head as a 
bullrush, and to-morrow arm themselves as fiercely as 
ever. This is not the way to call down a blessing upon 
our country. If men (in power) will not learn wisdom, 
the people must suffer. If those who are citizens will 
not adhere to the precepts of Jesus, the Gospel spirit 



130 Life and Letters of 

will not rule in our land. Surely there is trouble in the 
camp. If might were right, our country would prosper 
still, and rise above all other nations of the earth, because 
of our liberal institutions. But, then the rattling of the 
chains of the bondman would no more grate upon our 
ears, neither would the man at the bar hand forth the 
poisonous cup to the weaklings of the flock. 

I do not know of any news of importance. The 
condition of our country seems to be the all-absorbing 
topic. I hope our young men will not look toward war 
with an expectation of lending their aid. Will not the 
people, in whose power — humanly speaking — it is, settle 
the difficulties amicably. Slavery has ever been a blight, 
and if war should grow out of it, it will be a ten-fold 
calamity. 

Write when thee has time. With love I am thy 
affectionate grandmother, 

M. S. L. 

Third Month 8th, 1861. 
My Dear Grandson : — How is thee in health, and 
how is thee getting along ? We want to know, and we 
want to see thee. I have had many cares and many 
anxieties, as our school has not been so large as usual, 
though we have brighter prospects for another year, and 
hope all is right. Thee knows in such a concern as this 
there must be calculations ahead, and anxiety to be lay- 
ing up something from year to year. I hope I am grate- 
ful for my favors. I also hope that good may come from 



Mary S. Lippincott. 131 

the turnings and overturniugs in our country. I hope 
there will not be war, but trust to Him who controls the 
destinies of nations, that his power may stay the cruel 
oppressor's hand. A country like ours ought not to have 
the stain of slavery upon its robe. All men are born 
free and equal. Let all have their rights. It may be 
a work of time, but right must prevail. 

A. R. often conies in to talk about thee, and mani- 
fests much interest in thy comfort. Other friends often 
inquire about thee — so thee is not " out of sight, out of 
mind." 

I remain thy affectionate and well-wishing grand- 
mother, 

M. S. L. 

Fifth Month 21st, 1861. 
My Dear Grandson : — I received thy very accepta- 
ble letter duly, and ought to have written to thee long 
ere this, but the state of the country, the trials of my 
near relatives in the South, the Yearly Meeting, and my 
increased school duties seemed to disarrange my plans 
for attending to correspondence. While I still feel a 
great deal, I have become more easy under it ; trusting 
in the arm of Divine Power to carry on his own work, 
and in the way to produce the greatest good to the 
people. It is an awful day, but who could expect any 
other than that it must come, if cruelty and oppression 
were suffered to prevail to such an extent ? We wait the 
result with great anxiety. 

I hope thee is progressing with thy studies, un- 



132 Life and Letters of 

moved by the sound of war, or of the trampling of horses 
rushing to the field of battle. It is a fine spring to be in 
school, the weather continues to be so cool and pleasant. 

Farmers have plenty to keep them busy, and I am 
thankful that enough remain at home to till the ground, 
and to attend to various branches of peaceful industry, 
so that our future wants may be supplied. But I 
lament over our people, that, blest as we are above 
all the nations of the earth, we cannot be grateful for 
our prosperit}', and live as brethren on an equality, in 
harmony and peace, guaranteeing to one another rights 
and privileges that are due to all, irrespective of nation, 
race or color. Had this feeling and these conditions 
existed throughout our land, instead of the roar of 
cannon and the glitter of bayonets, there would have 
been the anthem ' of "peace on earth and good will 
toward men." Our common Father, I am sure, willed 
it to be so, and nothing is lacking, but a want, on our 
part, of obedience to his will. Disobedience bringeth 
death, and all manner of cruelties and oppression, with 
their concomitants, sorrow and misery. What a waste 
war makes of life and property ! 

We shall be glad to hear from thee soon. With 
love, I remain thy interested grandmother, 

M. S. L. 

Eighth Month 14th, 1861. 
My Dear Grandson : — Several of my relatives have 
come from Alexandria, some to New Jersey and some. to 



Mary S. Lippiqcott. 133 

Pennsylvania. They look forward to returning soon, 
and now are hoping to be able to remain at their homes. 
I have lately been more comfortable concerning them, 
still feeling confidence in the Divine Arm that is able to 
protect them, even from their excited opposers. The 
beginning of this struggle has indeed been terrible, and 
what the end may be, who can tell ? 

If men would only learn wisdom by the things they 
suffer — but the natural man is always the same ; it is 
only the Christian that changes ; and if mankind ever 
embrace, in its purity, the religion of Jesus Christ, wars 
and. fightings will cease, and harmony everywhere pre- 
vail. This would be the restoration of all things ; and 
what a pity that such is not now the condition of in- 
telligent beings, made but a little lower than the angels, 
and intended for eternal life and happiness. Happiness 
in time, and happiness throughout the boundless ages of 
eternity. 

Thy loving grandmother, 

M. S. L. 

Eleventh Month 5th, 1861. 

My Dear Grandson; — Thy acceptable letter just 
received, reminds me that none of us have written to 
thee since thy return to school. 

Last week I passed in Baltimore, attending the 
Yearly Meeting. My brother and sister, and many of 
my friends from Maryland and Pennsylvania, were in 
attendance. Very few came from Virginia, none being 



134 Life and Letters of 

permitted except those who are within the Government 
lines, and many of these deemed it prudent, in these 
unsettled times, to stay at home. From Louden County 
four men came without asking passes, and hoped to 
return, though the banished and refugees are not per- 
mitted to go home to their families. 

The deprivations of those within the Confederate 
lines are very great. Groceries are very scarce, and salt 
is nearly all used up. Coffee is fifty cents per pound, 
and the commonest sugar, twenty cents. 

We had pleasant weather and an excellent Yearly 
Meeting. Nothing occurred on my visit to annoy me, 
except that, while I was passing through Philadelphia, 
a woman got her hand into my pocket, and succeeded in 
stealing my watch. I could not account for her behavior, 
but did not think of my watch till a few minutes too 
late. My money being in my satchel she did not get 
that. 

I am sorry that your pupils are so unsettled by 
the sound of war. Oh ! how glad I should be to have 
the war ended, and the Government peaceably sustained. 
We are all well and getting along very pleasantly. We 
have fort}' pupils, twenty-one of them boarders, and are 
expecting more. We have never had a happier company 
of girls, or a more agreeable time. The autumn is 
delightful, and favors late pasture, ccc. 

I remain, with love, thy same 

M. S. L. 
P. S. — I think thy mind is settled to stay in the 
quiet. 



Mary S. Lippincott. 135 

First Month 12th, 1862. 

My Dear Grandson : — Everything would seem 
pretty cheerful, if it were not for the times, which cast 
a damp over all ; for we don't know what is to be done 
in the future, nor how to calculate for our business. It 
is needful to deliberate before we take a step ; the move- 
ments seem fraught with so much uncertainty. In the 
South the suffering is great, and the deprivations are 
many. Kven the innocent have to suffer for the neces- 
saries of life, on account of scarcity and high prices. 
In Louden our friends feel their wants, yet try to keep 
in the patience. As they can send only open letters 
they do not write the worst. Cotton is eighteen and 
three-quarter cents per spool ; candles, fifteen cents apiece. 
No more candle-wick, and some have cut up their cotton 
clothes-lines to make wick. No more kerosene in the 
stores, and no calico, &c. 

I believe our friends and neighbors are generally 
well. W. C. met with a serious accident recently. His 
horse ran away, threw him out of the vehicle, and in- 
jured him very much. It is now thought he will re- 
cover. All were well at thy Uncle W's when we last 
heard. 

With love, and with desires for thy health and best 
welfare, I am thy affectionate grandmother, 

M. S. L. 
Second Month 14th, 1862. 

My Dear Grandson : — Thy acceptable letter was 
duly received, and it claimed our interest, more than 



136 Life and Letters of 

usual, by expressions of sympathy with thee, though 
late, as it appeared thee had well nigh recovered from 
the measles. Thee must, indeed, have felt lonely and 
desolate with such disease upon thee, and among 
strangers. . I should have felt very anxious if I had 
known it at the time. I do hope that thee has not taken 
any cold, and that thee will be careful of thy eyes, for 
they may be weak for some time, as such is often the 
case after that disease. 

I approve of thy plan of going to college, and leav- 
ing the other arrangement at present. We are getting 
thy things ready for thee. All join in love. 
TI13' affectionate grandmother, 

M. S. L. 

Fourth Month 6th, 1862. 
My Dear Grandson : — Last evening I received thy 
acceptable letter, announcing thy safe arrival [at Kxeter, 
N. H.] It was gratifying to hear from thee, for we had 
thought and talked much about thee, thinking of thy 
lonely journey, and then arriving at the end of it, 
amongst friends, unknown and untried. Yet, we had 
faith to believe that thee would get on without difficulty, 
and that — health permitting — all would be well. I am 
glad to learn that appearances are favorable, and that 
th} T boarding place promises fair. If the family should 
prove to be pleasant, it will be more home-like to be 
there than it would to be where there are many ; espe- 
ciall}' if any in the large establishment should be given 



Mary S. Lippiqcott. 137 

to misdemeanor. I am not partial to rigorous ruling, 
though I love discipline and order. A few rules, and 
these well obeyed, are far better than too many ; and I 
believe kind and social intercourse between preceptor 
and pupils, with private admonition when needed, estab- 
lishes confidence, and a disposition to govern with love 
on one part, and to obey with cheerfulness and simplicity 
on the other ; thus making school a pleasant place, and 
every duty in connection with it, interesting to perform. 
I think, too, that the more we love our Heavenly Father, 
and the more we desire to serve and please Him, the 
more we shall love his creatures, and the greater will 
be the kindness and tenderness which we manifest to- 
wards each other. Especially will this be the case with 
those having charge of young people. It is better to 
lead than to drive. If teachers are led by the unerring 
spirit of Truth, they will dwell in the light, and walk 
in the light, thus becoming leaders that do not cause the 
people to err, and agents in the Divine Hand in raising 
the young into life, and letting them fall just in the 
niche they were ordained to fill. Hardened, indeed, 
must be the youth that will not follow in such a pleas- 
ant and promising path. In that peaceful path, God's 
love and grace abound to sustain the wayfarer, and set- 
tle the mind with composure, let come what will. I, 
indeed, have great cause to acknowledge that the Lord 
has been my support when I could look nowhere else 
for any ; and I have no doubt that, at thy early age, 

thine can be the same acknowledgment. 
10 



138 Life and Letters of 

I have no fears of thy being expelled from the school, 
and if thy health should not suffer from too close appli- 
cation, I shall feel easy. The climate there being so 
much colder than ours at this season, I hope thee will 
be careful to dress warm enough. 

I have often heard that the New England villages 
are picturesque, having an abundance of shade, &c. 
The people, too, are persevering, and know how to earn 
a livelihood. They are to be esteemed for this, as it 
makes them valuable as a class of citizens. 

I hope that thee will be well satisfied with having 
chosen to go there, also that thee may be able to pass 
the time profitably during the vacation of the school. 

We shall always be glad to hear from thee. With 
unabated interest, I remain thy affectionate grandmother. 

M. S. L. 

Fifth Month 6th, 1862. 

My Dear Grandson : — I have not written as soon 
as I should have done. The distressing state of affairs 
in our country, and the pressure in business matters 
resulting therefrom ; the slain on the battle fields, of 
the sons of our people, the desolate homes of the widow 
and the orphan, the suffering of the sick and wounded 
who are pining away in the hospitals — these things 
combine to almost disqualify me for the regular routine 
of business, and for the use of my pen as in times gone by. 

The cause of all this great trouble, and slaughter 
and devastation ; indeed of the evils and wretchedness 



Mary S. Lippincott. 139 

that are in the world, has been man's revolt from his 
Maker. He has disobeyed that inward language of im- 
pression, " If thou doest well, shalt thou not be accepted ? 
and if thou doest not well, sin lieth at the door." What 
happiness all might enjoy in this life, and in anticipa- 
tion of the joys to come in the eternal world, if only all 
would hear and obey, that their souls might live. This 
earth might be as a paradise ; for those trials and depri- 
vations, incident to a state of probation, would be received 
as good things in the wisdom of Providence, and hence 
they would not render us unhappy. 

I desire for myself, and for the human family, that 
we may increasingly set a right value on human life, 
its uses and intentions ; and therefore prize our privi- 
leges and number our blessings. 

We often talk about thee, and we all feel deeply 
interested in thy welfare. I never doubt thy doing well. 

Farewell, with love and desires for thy continued 
improvement. 

I am thy affectionate grandmother, 

M. S. L. 

Seventh Month 7th, 1862. 

My Dear Grandson : — Take good care of thyself; 
follow that inward guide which leads in the way of right- 
eousness and peace — the way of justice, humility and 
truth ; and all will be well with thee, let what may at- 
tend thee. 

I hope thee will have a pleasant trip, and see the 



140 Life and Letters of 

natural beauties of New England, not failing to observe 
the industrious habits of her sturd}* sons and frugal 
daughters. 

We often think of thee with deep interest, desiring 
thy prosperity and happiness, and thy advancement in 
the way that leads to usefulness. 

In haste, and with love from all, I am thy affection- 
ate grandmother, 

M. S. L. 

Twelfth Month 13th, 1862. 

My Dear Grandson : — I dial see Asa's letter from 
thee, also one to him from G. L. S., mentioning thy 
programme and speaking in kindly terms of thy de- 
portment and progress in study while at his school. 
Thy letter to me was also received. 

The business arrangements will be property at- 
tended to, and provision made in case of thy not return- 
ing, though I hope that we may see them again. 

That thee will experience pretty fully the privations 
and hardships of a life in the navy, I have no doubt ; 
but to be fortified for these, and to bear them patiently, 
will make them supportable and lessons of self-reliance. 
By looking to the great and good Spirit as the alone 
true guide and director in all that is right, lessons of 
this kind may be abundantly spread before thee while 
tossing to and fro upon the boisterous ocean, with the 
port far distant, and probably unknown. We are all on 
the ocean of life during our earthly sojourn — some on 



Mary S. Lippincott. 141 

the briny deep and others on terra firma. All are in 
danger of shipwreck if not vigilant on the lookout ; or 
if we have not efficient strength and a trusty Helmsman 
to man our little barks. In time of storm and danger 
we should have a present Saviour to call upon, who can 
arise and rebuke the winds, and command an immediate 
calm. Many are the storms of life, but the Great Pilot 
who rules the tempest as He does the calm, often, when 
the elements are in fierce strife, and the raging seas 
threaten to overwhelm our little bark, teaches us lessons 
which in the quiet we should never have learned. But 
a seaman's life is one of peril — one of instability and 
change, and a fighting sailor knows not when a for- 
midable foe may attack, sending his body to a watery 
grave and his soul to the invisible future. To live so as 
to be ready to depart in peace is the great business of 
life, and I know of no other way to attain this state than 
to keep a conscience void of offense toward God and 
toward man. In the New Testament the life and char- 
acter of the Christian is set forth, as well as the design 
of man's existence, &c. He is to glorify his Heavenly 
Father in this life, that he may enjoy Him evermore in 
unmixed felicity. 

I do not know that in my day this once favored 
country will again be blest with peace and prosperity ; 
but I trust we shall find a portion of happiness, and be 
the partakers of many of the good gifts of a bountiful 
Giver. Gratitude should, therefore, prevail in our hearts, 
and a desire that He will teach us wisdom and give us 



142 Life and Letters of 

understanding, that we may know his mind and will 
concerning ns. 

I suppose thee saw the eclipse of the moon. Our 
large family were up some time observing it. It was a 
beautiful, clear night, the snow adding splendor to all 
around. When thee writes again we shall be glad to 
know what position thee has, thy engagements, &c, 
that we may think how it fares with thee, and know the 
destination of the vessel. It is an awful thing to think 
of the war that is desolating our land. I desire not in 
any way to encourage its continuance, believing, as I do, 
that it is not the design of the great and good Being 
that men should destro)' one another. 

I hope thee will have books to read, and that thee 
ma)' keep thy conversation chaste and coupled with 
fear, so as not to be influenced by any surrounding 
circumstances, and especially by the hard language so 
often used by the sailors. 

With love, and desires for thy preservation, I am 
thy affectionate grandmother, 

M. S. L. 

Third Month 9th, 1863. 
My Dear Grandson : — On the 7th instant I received 
thy acceptable letter dated Second Month 15th, and was 
very glad, once again, to hear from thee. I should have 
written again, but was not sure of the right direction, 
therefore waited anxiously, desiring to receive intelli- 
gence from thee. Your situation seems perilous, both 



Mary S. Lippincott. 143 

on account of your isolation and the leakiuess of the 
vessel. There are so many vessels afloat in Government 
service, that we supposed you were with a fleet. 

Deliverance from the present thraldom may come, 
and will, I trust, if people humble themselves, and 
call upon a Power higher than man's to control events, 
to deliver the captive from cruel bondage, and to bring 
about a peace not to be again disturbed. Maybe good 
will grow out of the evil ; for in the North the slave 
system has been so sanctioned and sustained that we 
have partaken of her sins, and must therefore receive of 
her plagues. 

I am glad thee keeps well, and am pleased th-at a 
situation more favorable for improvement offers. I hope 
thy great care will be to improve thy mind and protect 
thy morals. No doubt thee is exposed to profane and 
coarse language, but let it not influence thee to depart 
from that which is chaste and becoming in the most 
refined society. 

Should you get to Philadelphia next month, as I 
hope you may, we shall be very glad to see thee. Thy 
mother is very anxious to hear froni thee, and no doubt 
more so to see thee. Since thee left Moorestown there 
have been many changes by removals, marriages and 
deaths. I believe thy relatives are as well as usual. 

The birds are beginning to sing. I suppose that 
you, in that southern climate, have warm weather nearly 
all the time. I should think the constant motion of a 
vessel would be unpleasant to the head ; but there is a 



144 Life and Letters of 

great deal in use. I wish thee could have some of our 
apples and other edibles ; do you have pretty comforta- 
ble provisions ? I know thee is not particular, and is 
easily satisfied with regard to food ; but a wholesome 
variety never conies amiss. I hope thee may not have 
to go to battle. Oh ! how it would comfort the feelings, 
on returning from the navy, to have hands unstained 
with blood. 

We often talk about thee, and wonder where thee 
is, and how thee fares. 

With desires for thy preservation, I am thy affec- 
tionate grandmother, 

M. S. L. 

Fifth Month 4th, 1S63. 
My Dear Grandson : — I received thy truly accepta- 
ble and very interesting letter, in less than two weeks 
after it was written. I should have replied immediately, 
but I have had so much headache this spring that my 
daily round of duties seemed to be about as much as I 
was able to perform. But I have remembered thee none 
the less ; for very, very often, by day and by night, do 
I think of thee tossing on the unstable element, isolated 
from female society, and deprived of the luxuries, and of 
many of the conveniences of life. How I long for the 
termination of this war. How unwise has been the 
course pursued 03^ the South, that might have been 
made prosperous and happy, had they been content with 
the best government in the world ; and been willing to 



Mary S. Lippincott. 145 

liberate themselves from the evil of slavery. I pity 
them for their ignorance, or whatever else it was, that 
caused them to rush onward to destruction and desola- 
tion. I sympathize with the destitute among them — 
women and children suffering great deprivations, while 
husbands and fathers are on the battle-field. Well, they 
and we are in it — in war and in slavery ; and I still be- 
lieve that the two must end together, or else we shall 
have only an uncertain peace. 

Many friends inquire for thee with much interest, 
and I believe desire thy health and happiness, and will 
be glad to see thee again, if thee can be favored to get 
home. 

I hope that you will not have to join the battles on 
sea ; I dread them so much. 

I do not know of any interesting news, and I can- 
not send thee anything good that I know of, or indeed 
thee would often get some of the comforts of the table. 

With much love, and with desires for thy preserva- 
tion in innocency, and for thy health and happiness, I 
conclude, and remain thy affectionate grandmother, 

M. S. L. 

Sixth Month 3rd, 1869. 
My Dear Grandson : — I did not intend to let so 
much time pass by without again writing to thee, but 
my many close engagements must be my apology. I 
often think of thee, this busy season, when, to make a 
living, so many have to earn their bread by the sweat of 



146 Life and Letters of 

their face. But honest bread is sweet, and it matters not 
much how closely occupied we are, mentally or physically, 
so that we " pitch upon that course of life which is most 
useful, and habit will in time render it most agreeable." 
I have faith that in the most part this is true, even 
though at times we ma)- sigh for deliverance from a bur- 
den that presses heavily ; yet, as we look around us, 
and see a plodding multitude more unfavorably circum- 
stanced, and engaged in occupations less pleasing to us 
than our own, and seemingly having greater cause for 
unhappiuess than ourselves, we learn to be, at least 
measurably, contented with our present lot. 

I hope that circumstances may favor thy getting 
permanently fixed, without having to anticipate changes. 
If thee can be engaged in fruit growing, without undue 
encroachment upon thy studies, it may be well ; and 
when ready to enter upon the practice of law, perhaps 
thee ma}- establish thyself where thee is, and find the 
environment as agreeable as the home of thy childhood. 
I often think it is not a matter of great moment whether 
we are amongst our relatives or strangers ; for if we con- 
duct ourselves as we ought, we find friends — whether 
our kindred or not — who cheer and gladden our lives 
by kindness and affection. Though we have had a very 
cold spring, yet the abundance of rain has favored the 
growth of vegetation, and everything with the farmer 
seems to promise fair. Strawberries are plentiful in the 
market, and our own are beginning to ripen. Our school 



Mary S. Lippirjcott. 147 

is to continue four weeks after this, and then we are to 
have a vacation of twelve weeks. 

We have a First-day school at our meeting-house, 
on First-day afternoons, and a Reading Association on 
Third-day evenings, in both of which I am interested. 
I have often looked at the lads, since I have been a resi- 
dent of Moorestown, and my heart has warmed at the 
thought that these are to be our future men ; and my 
desire has been that they may be trained up in the way 
they should go, that in manhood the Good Being should 
have possession of their hearts, in order that their course 
may be directed aright. Then would there be wanting 
wise men to save a city or a country ? Surely not. So 
at least I think, for I have great confidence in a guarded 
education, and in the social mingling of old and young, 
that a close intimacy between these two classes may be 
established ; that experience and activity may go hand 
in hand, age being enlivened by youth, and youth stead- 
ied by age ; and that, as their interests are identical, 
their sentiments should harmonize on all matters of 
vital importance. The farther I advance on the journey 
of life, the more anxious I am to see a host of men and 
women doing all the good they can in the world, in their 
e very-day life. 

Our country has passed through a sore ordeal, but 
everything now favors prosperity and happiness, if only 
there is a sincere intention on the part of those in 
power, and of business men as well, to pursue a right 
course, and to regard the common weal as paramount to 



148 Life and Letters of 

all selfish intrigues and over-reaching avarice. I am 
aware that there is much corruption, and that vice and 
immorality are making fearful strides ; but we may take 
comfort in the assurance that where sin abounded, grace 
did much more abound. I believe in abounding grace 
to redeem from pollutions, and to save ; and this belief, 
together with the hope that there are enough good men 
to bear up above the flood of corruption, leads me to 
anticipate brighter, better and happier days for these 
United States. 

The time may come when thee can visit us, and see 
for thyself the many changes that have occurred. Thee 
will find some improvements, some strippings, and many 
of us traveling the down-hill of life. Can thee see thy 
grandmother sitting in the library, writing to thee ; 
thy grandfather's picture hanging there so smiling ; 
and the books, &c. Wouldn't thee like to be here a 
little while ? I should be so glad to see thee, the only 
male representative bearing the name of Lippincott in my 
family. Well, dear child, continue to bear it honorably, 
and then thee will meet those in Heaven who were bound 
to thee by kindred ties on earth. Yes, and thee will also 
be happy in time, during the days and years that may 
be allotted to thee in this state of existence. While I 
live thee may rest assured that there is one whose in- 
terest in thy prosperity and happiness cannot be lessened. 
Accept my love and sympathy with thy every privation 
and hardship, and think of me as 

Thy affectionate grandmother, 

M. S. L. 



Mary S. Lippiqcott 149 

Ninth Month i6th, 1869. 

My Dear Grandson : — Thy letter is just received. 
We were very anxious to hear from thee, for we feel 
sympathy with thee in thy illness, but hope that the hot 
season will soon be succeeded by weather favoring thy 
recovery. I often think that sickness is a service for 
our profit ; and the purpose that it should serve is to 
raise our thoughts from this life to that which is to come 
— this, so short and uncertain, the other, ever-enduring. 

I am much improved in health, but my head is still 
weak, and the continued heat affects me — particularly 
in the middle of the day, and my hand continues un- 
steady from that cause. I hope I am thankful that I am 
so much better, for I desire to be restored and spared 
longer to my precious children. But we must all of us, 
in all things, endeavor after resignation to the Divine 
will. In this there is patience to endure all things, and 
to await every event. 

Jane seems much better, but whether or not the im- 
provement is permanent, we must wait to see. Margaret 
is well. We are to open school on the 27th instant. 
Schools have so multiplied, that few are filled as they 
were formerly, and the few are those in which the ac- 
complishments are taught. 

I cannot write much this time, as my head is pain- 
ful. My fervent desires are for thy welfare, and my 
hope is that thy health may soon be restored. I hope, 
too, that I shall be better able to write. 

Farewell, my dear grandson. May the Lord keep 



150 Life aqd Letters of 

thee and bless thee. My love to the good, kind family 
with whom is thy sojourn. 

I am thy affectionate grandmother, 

M. S. L. 

Eighth Month 28th, 1879. 
My Dear Grandson : — I have been thinking a great 
deal about thee and thine — more than usual for some 
weeks past, though I trust I do not lose sight of you, nor 
suffer my love for you to wane, however long my silence 
may have been. The heat has been great, and it has 
been accompanied by misty days, which were very de- 
bilitating. This condition of the weather, together with 
a rheumatic lameness in my right arm, disinclines me to 
write, even though my desires to do so are very strong. 
I have been much at home for the past year, being less 
able to bear carriage-riding than I was formerly. Re- 
member, I have passed the seventy-eighth mile-stone on 
my pilgrimage through this world of lights and shadows. 
My pathway has been diversified with joys and sorrows, 
and many companions with whom I have traveled in 
close intimac}- have gone over the river before me, leaving 
a blank that nothing below can ever fill. Yes, but the 
loveliness of God's earth remains, and many lovely and 
beloved younger people. A few in the gray white of 
winter's frost, more in the sear of autumn, and many, 
very many, in the loveliness of youth and buoyant 
childhood. Toward all of these — but most especially to 
the youth — my heart bounds with a feeling of love and 



Mary S. Lippincott. J51 

good will which bids them pursue the path of upright- 
ness, and labor that the world may be better because 
they have lived in it. 

It may seem late to tell thee of the number of our 
friends and neighbors who were and are not, but who, I 
trust, live forever in the Celestial City. Thy uncle, 
David Walton and wife and myself, are the only ones of 
that generation remaining. They are living in Virginia, 
and, as they do not incline to travel, we seldom meet. 
It would be a pleasure to me to meet him once more and 
talk over the happy days of the past. For about two 
years he was an inmate of our family, and as he was 
then a childless widower, thy dear, good father and he 
roomed together. Thy attractive^ amiable, good father 
was then a boy from twelve to fourteen years old. The 
good qualities of his boyhood ever remained with him, 
and his lovelineness and lovableness continued with 
him to the end of his earthly career. Just before passing 
away, when taking leave of his father, he said : " Thee 
has been a dear, good father to me. There has never 
been an unkind word or a hard thought between us." 
To which we could both reply, " Thee has been a dear, 
good son." 

Well, he passed on to a higher life early ; in his 
twenty-eighth year, happy and resigned ; a great loss to 
survivors, but as he said, " I shall miss much trouble." 
His sensitive mind was grieved to see suffering and 
to know of wrong-doing ; and such sights and such 
knowledge are the experience of the observant. He had 



152 Life and Letters of 

led an innocent and nseful life, and being assured of a 
clear record, lie was not afraid to face the just Judge. 
Oh, what a blessing to him, and what a comfort to sur- 
vivors, that he should have this assurance when the 
awful period arrived. I had buried four sons before him, 
and he was as dear to me as they were ; yea, more dear 
as a companion, for he was older (the oldest of the 
others was in his ninth year when he died), and a 
kinder brother to little boys and girls, and one more 
loved by them could not be. His kindness I can never 
forget, nor his fondness for children. If ever so busy 
he must take up the little ones in his arms to caress 
them ; and when they were sick he was a most affec- 
tionate and efficient nurse. Tell thy dear, little Isaac, 
that he had another nice grandfather, younger than thee 
now is, when the Heavenly Father took him to heaven. 
We have no visible likeness of him ; but on my memory 
I have the impress, fresh, ever fresh. Thee shall have 
thy grandfather's likeness and mine, also those of thy 
aunt's, if we can arrange to get them taken while we all 
live, which I hope we can. 

We are very glad you all keep well. We have 
watched the papers, hoping that the fever would not 
spread and reach Cairo. I am much gratified to learn 
that circumstances direct th}^ course to teaching and to 
study ; believing it increases thy usefulness to be en- 
gaged in that way. For years past, thee must have 
had a busy life, including th}^ clerkship; but when 
business is profitable, it makes the labor seem less 



Mary S. Lippincott. 153 

wearisome. I suppose thy farming is carried on by 
proxy ; this answers quite well, if a watchful eye takes 
cognizance from day to day. I have never thought that 
work on a farm would be adapted to thy constitution. 

If I were ten years younger and had ample means, 
I should not long delay a visit to you in your own home. 
Aunties, too, would love to go as much as I should. If 
we had seen you there, just once, we should then be 
able to look in upon you with the mind's eye, and see 
you just as you are. Tell little Isaac that we intend to 
send our pictures before long ; we also hope to see him 
and his mother face to face, sometime ere we pass away. 
Farewell ! With our united love to you all, 
Thy affectionate grandmother, 

M. S. L. 

Tenth Month ist, 1883. 
My Dear Grandson : — I am aware that it is a long 
time since I have written to thee, as I do not write much 
of late years, and less each year. But, could thought 
reach thee in words, there would be no lack of intelli- 
gence or communication, for I keep in remembrance 
those loved and cherished in childhood, in youth, and in 
old age — those who still live, and many, very many, 
gone from this world to a future home. Yes, I seek 
their presence, and they pass before my mental vision 
in their loveliness as seen when present, and often a 
momentary joy flashes over me as though a sweet com- 
mingling were realized. I hope this may ever continue 



154 Life aqd Letters of 

while memory, the mirror of the mind, remains untar- 
nished, for it makes voids less felt, and removes, par- 
tially at least, a loneliness, a sadness, that intrudes at 
seasons, as the separations are realized. Many are in 
far distant places, and many more have passed to the 
spirit-land. 

At my age I cannot visit much — not even a few 
miles off — without headache and fatigue. So, loving 
home, and enjoying this beautiful world, as I have in 
consecutive years from my infanc}- onward ; I remember 
the many blessings and favors dispensed, and that my 
life has been brightened by the company of those around 
me. Yes, life has its pleasures renewed day by day, 
and for these, gratitude fills my heart to the Supreme 
Giver of all Good, and the stream of his universal love 
flows out toward all who live, accompanied by a fervency 
of desire that every soul may be separated from sin, may 
be redeemed, fitted and prepared for the true enjoyment 
of life here (the intention, no doubt, of the Creator) 
upon the terms of obedience to the Spirit of Truth, and 
the full fruition of bliss in the spirit-world — peace and 
joy forever. 

The neuralgia, from which I have long suffered, 
has now become my chief complaint. It has lamed me 
some, and it causes stiffness in my right arm. In other 
respects my health has improved. 

Jane's throat is better, though her cough continues, 

and the doctor says one lurjg is nearly gone. M is 

pretty well, though not very strong, and we are all 



Mary S. Lippincott. 155 

bright and cheerful. We greatly enjoy our home life, 
in a private way, after so many years with a large house- 
hold. We can now enjoy the visits of our friends, with 
nothing to call us away during an hour of social con- 
verse, or longer time, as occasion offers. How we should 
love to see you here, and to become acquainted with 
Lizzie and the children. Perhaps the time may come 
when a visit can be accomplished. We shall, at least, 
have it in anticipation, for there is enjoyment in plan- 
ning for time to come. 

Many changes have taken place, but many remain 
of thy relatives and friends. The improvements almost 
everywhere are marked ; and I hope they may continue, 
as prosperity, if rightly received, is adding to the eleva- 
tion and usefulness of the inhabitants in every place. 

Thy aunt P's children and grandchildren are doing 
well, I believe, and are mostly well. There are several 
great-grandchildren — interesting, of course. All live in 
love and harmony. 

A good many of my nephews, nieces and others in 
whom I am especially interested, are at Swarthmore 
College. The number of students there this term is 
larger than ever before. Our new school-house at Moores- 
town has been enlarged. The school numbers nearly 
one hundred pupils this term. The meeting and First- 
day school are large, though many have died. We go 
there often to Monthly and Preparative Meeting. We 
have a meeting and a First-day school here in Camden, 
but we cannot yet sever ourselves from Moorestown. 



156 Life and Letters of 

I hope you are all well. Does Isaac learn well at 
school ? Does he speak German ? How I should love 
to talk with him, and to hear him talk ; and Richard, 
too, the little prattler; and dear Lizzie, and thy dear 
self. All of you, including Lizzie's father, accept our 
united love, and desires for your health, happiness and 
prosperity in every way. 

Thy affectionate grandmother, 

M. S. L. 

Eleventh Month ist, 1883. 

My Dear Grandson : — This is a lovely, bright day, 
with a cool, bracing air. It is very acceptable after 
the damp, foggy, oppressive weather that has prevailed 
for several weeks past. It was quite unusual for the 
autumn, which we anticipate as the loveliest of seasons. 
Still, the occasional days of pleasant weather have kept 
a little balance in favor of strength, so that Jane has 
improved a good deal, though she still has a hard cough. 
The season has not been a sickly one, though we now 
hear of colds and some fevers. 

Wy head and eyes are still weak, owing to my 
suffering from neuralgia. I am improving now. Thy 
aunt P., her children and grandchildren, get here pretty 
often. 

Nathan Conrow died lately, also William Borton. 
The meeting, though still large, has been much stripped. 
If thee were to visit Moorestown now thee would miss 
many from meeting, and as for the place, it is so enlarged 



Mary S. Lippincott. 157 

and improved thee would hardly know it. Many Phila- 
delphians live there, and attend to business in the city. 

One of our Camden neighbors has a son in St. Louis. 
I send thee his address, and with it the information that 
it would be a comfort to his mother if he and thee would 
become acquainted. He is a stranger in your city, is 
young, has been well brought up, and probably would 
be glad of a kind word, or even a little counsel from one 
who came from his old neighborhood, and who is much 
more familiar than himself with the West and its ways. 

I hope you are well, and that Isaac can " talk Dutch ;" 
also that Richard grows, and entertains his mother. 
How we'd like to see the children and their parents. I 
wanted to write, as I have more leisure than thee has, 
but the two great drawbacks to my correspondence are 
dim sight and lameness in my right arm. I hope thee 
can read this writing. 

Our united love to thee, Lizzie and the children ; 
also to your father. 

Thy attached grandmother, 

M. S. L. 

Third Month 3rd, 1884. 
My Dear Grandson : — We recur with much comfort 
to your visit, and hope that you did not take cold, or feel 
worse for your journey; also that you continue well. 
We have thought much about thy accumulated business, 
and hoped that the increased pressure would not weary 
thee too much. 



158 Life and Letters of 

Have you had any share in the loss and suffering 
occasioned by the terrible floods ? As we have not seen 
any mention to that effect, we hope that you have 
escaped. The loss of life and property seemed heart- 
rending ; and the idea of rebuilding on such low lands 
seems almost appalling. 

In Philadelphia there has been a very destructive 
fire recently. Perhaps you have seen an account of it ; 
the chemical works of Powers & Weightman. The loss 
is very heav}', many laborers are thrown out of employ- 
ment, and so much quinine has been destroyed, as 
greatly to advance the already high price of that drug. 

In other places, too, there have been accounts of 
destructive fires. It is wonderful how so much waste in 
that wa} r occurs, when so much professed vigilance is 
exercised to prevent fires. It is to be hoped that some 
check can be given to prevent so much destruction by 
this devouring element. 

Jane longs to get out, as being confined to the house 
always increases her lung trouble. I do not get either 
to Philadelphia or to Moorestowu at this season of the 
year; but I greatly enjoy the visits of my friends. This 
mingling with loved ones keeps the mind bright ; so 
that there are enjoyments even in sickness. 

With love and best wishes from us all, to you all, 
I am thy affectionate grandmother, 

M. S. Iv. 



Mary S. Lippincott. _ 159 

Eighth Month 19th, 1884. 

My Dear Grandson : — It is a good while since I 
wrote thee, and since we have heard from thee. We 
have had a cooler summer than a year ago, and some- 
times very heavy rain (almost a flood once), which has 
been favorable for vegetation, but the heavy mists have 
been unusual, causing oppression when lungs are weak. 

I recruited so much during a few days passed at the 
shore, that I continue pretty well, and have a good appe- 
tite. We have not been much from home, as Jane gets 
sick from fatigue wheu she goes out riding. 

A great many go away from the city for the sum- 
mer, having two homes. This makes it more lonely for 
us that remain ; still, we cannot complain, for our neigh- 
bors have been very kind in visiting us. 

I suppose thee has seen accounts of the earthquake. 
Did you feel the shock ? It did not damage us, but was 
so severe as to occasion noise, swaying of walls, and in 
some places a rising of the ground, swinging and rattling 
of chandeliers, ringing of bells, &c. The walls of one 
house on Market Street cracked, and glasses were broken 
in some places. 

If thee is busy, perhaps Lizzie will tell us how you 
and your dear boys are. Love to you all. 

Your attached grandmother, 

M. S. L. 

First Month 27th, 1885. 
My Dear Grandson : — What troublesome times, at 
home and abroad, occasioned by party strife ; but — to 



160 . Life and Letters of 

those who can hear it — there is whispered in secret, " In 
me ye have peace." Oh ! that love and peace might 
reign; "peace on earth, and good-will toward men." 

Your dear little boys, I trust, grow, and are lights 
in the house. Has Isaac been able to go to school, in 
the cold. Has not the cold been more severe than is 
usual at St. Louis ? 

Our united love and best wishes to you all. 
Thy attached grandmother, 

M. S. L. 

Seventh Month 13th, 1885. 

My Dear Grandson : — During the two weeks since 
we came here to Rancocas I have had so much neuralgia 
that I put off writing. I am now better, but it occasions 
so much weakness in my head that I go out but little ; 
only to meeting, and to mingle with our family circle 
living in the village. We are very comfortable in our 
boarding place, which we find airy and pleasant, and all 
are kind and affectionate, and we are mostly cheerful. 

We are better than when we came here, but we feel 
lonely without dear Jane. Go where we may, we miss 
her so much, with her loving and faithful kindness. 
M. feels as though life is a struggle without her. But 
we are sure she is happy ; she was so willing and anxious 
to go to rest, so centered in love to everybody, and so 
trusting in her heavenly Father to receive her. We 
must look forward to the time of a reunion. 

P. and her children and grandchildren do seem to 



Mary S. Lippiqcott. 161 

be so loving and happy with one another, and so inter- 
ested and helpful where they can bestow aid upon any- 
body, that it is a delightful neighborhood to be in. The 
poorest are sought after and cared for, and P. is as a 
doctor to them when they are sick. 

We often talk about you. Has R. recovered from 
his hurt ? Is I. better, and has he returned home ? We 
should all love to see you, and to welcome you. Do not 
tax thyself too hard. We send love to Lizzie, her father, 
and to the dear children. A blessing to all, from 
Thy affectionate grandmother, 

M. S. L. 



PART \\J- 

GENERAL CORRESPONDENCE. 

TO GEORGE HATTON. 



First Month 19th, 1850. 
My Dear Friend : — I must acknowledge my re- 
missness in allowing a very interesting letter, received 
months ago from thy dear son and daughter, to remain 
so long unnoticed ; also the Extracts from your Yearly 
Meeting, and a tribute to the memory of their dear, 
departed mother. For all three of these we are much 
obliged ; and though my pen has lain idle, my thoughts 
have not remained so, neither are our affections lessened 
toward thee and thine. Often do I feel as if it would 



162 Life and Letters of 

afford me much pleasure could I sit down and converse 
with thee, and see the little group assembled at the fire- 
place of thy son's home. As I am not privileged to do 
this, ma)- I not hope, some time, to greet 3^011 at our 
own habitation. 

Dear George, there are many instructors in Israel, 
but few are the fathers and the mothers. Ah ! for want 
of these, where are the children ? Will not the language 
yet be applicable (if not so already) that was spoken to 
the prophet Eli, who restrained not his sons. Alas, for 
the Society of Friends ? Where shall we be landed ? 
After all that our predecessors suffered that they might 
come out from the Nations and dwell alone ; are we now 
to declare that this was all a delusion ; and that we are 
to mix with them, partaking of their merchandise, and 
joining in their traffic ? Ah ! I believe the true Quaker 
is called out of the professing world now, as much and 
as truly as the Israelites were called out of Egypt. " Out 
of Egypt have I called my son." And if so, and if the 
disciples are with him, they must come out too. And 
what greater bondage than Egyptian bondage ? What 
darkness equal to Egyptian darkness ? Why it is to be 
felt ! Quakers never can be popular with the religionists 
of the da}-. Wheu they aspire to popularity, they run 
out. When Ephraim offended in Baal he died. Had 
the watchmen been faithful to chase the enemy out of 
their borders the city might have been saved. Are not 
their eyes now opening to see the effects of their re- 
missness ? 



Mary -S. Lippincott. 163 

There are those among us who seem to think that doc- 
trine is of little account. With these I differ, believing as 
I do in the promulgation of sound doctrine where truth 
sustains truth ; and feeling it right to discountenance 
the opposite, where error sustains error. If the doctrines 
of the Society of Friends are true, and if the embracing 
of them tended to make men better and more peaceful ; 
if they have been proved to be no cunningly devised 
fable, but the basis of a religion sufficient to live by and 
to die by, then they are worth standing up to support, 
even before a host of opposers. Shall we forsake the 
Master (within) when He is about to be taken and 
crucified ? 

We are told by some that ever} 7 one is to attend to 
the dictates of his own conscience. This advice, to a 
certain extent, is good, but conscience is educated, and 
one by its dictates, goes counter to another ; so come 
confusion, strife, division. No, this will not do. George 
Fox says " mind the Light." He also says that Christ 
is the Light, and that minding it brings all to Christ, 
where there is no division ; brings all into one fold, 
where they will support the same testimonies, walk by 
the same rule and mind the same thing. Here we can 
hear every man in our own tongue (with new tongues) 
wherein we were born (of the Spirit) ; and without this 
spiritual union how can we have fellowship as members 
of the same religious Society. 

I have been thankful that John Comly has been 



164 Life arid Letters of 

strengthened to get out to meetings, and that he is so 
alive to the interests of the Society. 

Elisha and Sarah Hunt have gone to the Western 
Quarter to attend some meetings there. Benjamin War- 
rington and wife are in delicate health. I have a Minute 
from the Monthly Meeting to appoint some meetings, 
and have attended but partially thereto ; for finding my 
health inadequate to the prosecution of the concern, I 
think it best to return the Minute and wait till another 
time. I have been absent from our own meeting very 
often of latter time, though my indisposition has been 
such as to la}- me by only for a few days at each turn. 

In. these parts we are very much exempt from the 
dividing spirit, the Truth being, I trust, strong enough 
to withstand it. For this we ought to be thankful, and 
to keep humble, trying to be prepared for the trials that 
may await us at our next Yearly Meeting. 

Has thou been out much since thou left us, or has 
thou been permitted to rest awhile since thy heavy dis- 
pensation of trial and stripping. Surely it has been 
such, and thou must feel thyself lonely, and the weight 
of exercise must press more heavily without a sym- 
pathizing partner to share it with thee. We have felt 
for thee much, but we had no doubt that thou would 
find a support to thy tried mind. Then, too, thou has 
consolation in thy children, who will, no doubt, endeavor 
to smooth thy path and to hold up thy hands. Also 
thou has dear friends around thee whose spirits are in 
unison with thine. These are consolations, and though 



Mary S. Lippineott. 165 

they cannot fill the void, yet they can soothe the sorrow- 
ing heart. None, as I apprehend, can know the feeling 
of the widowed state, until it is realized by experience • 
and yet, blessed be the Father of all, the back is fitted 
for the burden. He can give resignation, and then hard 
things are made easy. 

I remain, with much love from Isaac and myself, 
thy truly attached friend, 

Mary S. Lippincott. 

TO THE SAME. 

Eleventh Month 13th, 1851. 
Beloved Friend : — Thy truly acceptable letter 
brought a confirmation that my dear husband and my- 
self retain a place in thy memory and thy feelings, 
amidst all the fluctuations of time, and the conflicting 
of the elements in the civil and in the religious (?) 
world. To be thus remembered by one of the Lord's 
servants is an evidence that we (however unworthy) are 
still numbered with the household of faith. 

We rejoice to hear that thou and thy wife are 
joined together as yoke-fellows to labor in the Church of 
Christ, for the support of the Ark of the Testimony, and 
to keep it from passing over into the camp of the Philis- 
tines. We, as a Society, are besieged by a formidable 
foe, grown to the stature of Goliah of Gath ; as formida- 
ble in appearance and in array. No power can reach it, 
but the power of the Highest ; none can smite it but 
those who are armed with the whole armor of Light — 



166 Life and Letters of 

the name of the Lord. When we have a sense of our 
own frailties what blushing and confusion of face do we 
feel in the presence of the Most High. Ah ! my friend, 
I know what I say ; for verily do I feel that I have no 
might of my own, even to keep my own spirit in sub- 
jection ; to keep self under. Where, then, are the boast- 
ing and vaunting of poor, erring mortals ? Truly, as 
thou says, belligerent parties may form armies, and 
pitch in battle array. Israel, like the sons of Jesse, may 
engage in the Lord's battle, because they see the deso- 
lation and wasting they make. These may speak great, 
swelling words, and may extend an arm to pierce, but 
they cannot conquer. Oh ! what hard work it makes 
for the Lord's .anointed, when their own men go unskil- 
fully to work. They hurt the cause. As David went, 
so must go the servant now, that smites the champion, 
and puts the armies to flight ; and that servant must 
first have slain the lion and the bear. A conquest must 
be made at home, in our own experience. The world 
assumes the forms of the lion and the bear, to devour 
the lamb-like nature in us ; and if we have not power 
to keep our father's sheep, how can we help our brethren 
or meet our common foe ? 

I, with others, am led in a close way, and cannot find 
peace, without being obedient ; and if I have to be 
regarded as not being one of the philanthropists, I must 
bear it patiently ; having an evidence within my own 
breast, that I feel nothing but good-will to men, desiring 
their everlasting welfare. 



Mary S. Uppincott. 167 

We have been engaged in some religious visits in 
Bucks and Burlington Quarters. There are valuable, 
exercised Friends in those parts, also some who are up 
in the air, as if they had found a new way, and another 
key to open the secrets of the Most High. I am favora- 
ble to that charity which reproves those that are out of 
the Truth, and approves Truth's advocates, all in the 
same spirit — for the real welfare of both classes. I 
think the time of trial will come, when we shall have 
to show on whose side we are ; whether on the Lord's 
side, or on that of Baal. Who shall stand the day of 
trial ? 

Priscilla Cadwalader attended our meetings, I be- 
lieve to general satisfaction. Her doctrines are sound 
and scriptural. 

We have eighty-nine in family. It is a great re- 
sponsibility, but I hope that it is right for us to have 
our school, as a guarded education for the young is 
needed, and a care to restrain them from hurtful indul- 
gences. 

I hope thou may be preserved in that faith in which 
thou has heretofore stood; for then, shall none be able 
to pluck thee out of the hand of Him who called thee to 
espouse his cause. 

With love, in which Isaac joins, to thyself, wife and 
children, I remain 

Thy sincere friend and well-wisher, 

M. S. L. 



168 Life ar\d Letters of 

TO R. AND S. H. 
Moorestown, N. J., Second Month nth, 1852. 

Beloved Friends : — Although I am unable to decide 
whether or not I am indebted to you, I am inclined to 
write, and s&y that you are not forgotten amidst the 
multiplicity of business in which we are immersed ; and 
to hear from you is always pleasant. 

For awhile I did not answer ray friends' letters, 
because I felt too poor to write ; and thought that noth- 
ing interesting could emanate from my pen ; and though 
I have not changed this opinion, yet I did not feel quite 
satisfied to close my correspondence ; and, besides, 
thoughts repressed may become as stagnant waters. 

This has been a genuine, old-fashioned winter, 
whose character resembles that of which our aged grand- 
sires used to speak, in the days of our childhood, when 
the family group was collected around the great fire- 
place in the kitchen, where the fire burned briskly. 
Oh ! for those golden days of the olden time. But those 
days are gone ; times are altered ; dress takes the place 
of simple sports, and reading, of the ingenuous chat. 

Education is, no doubt, a blessing ; but, like every- 
thing else it must be in moderation, or its use ends. 
I love to see the native sports of children, and I enjoy 
domestic scenes, such as I loved when young. I am a 
great admirer of Cowper, and his views of enjoyment are 
in accord with my feelings. 

But, though the winter has been cold, it has not 
congealed the stream of love that flows towards our 



Mary S. Lippincott. 169 

friends, and binds us to those who are like-minded with 
ourselves. As such we regard you and your parents. 
Your loving friend, 

M. S. L. 

TO HER DAUGHTER. 

Pickering, Canada, Eighth Month, 1853. 
My Dear Jane : — I do not know whether or not I 
gave, in my letter to M., an account of our visit to the 
Falls of Niagara ; but I could not give a full description 
of their magnificence if I were to attempt it. We viewed 
the Rapids and the Cataract from many different posi- 
tions, going as near as we deemed it prudent to venture ; 
and we are prepared to acknowledge that nothing which 
has been written, by way of description, has even half 
reached the reality, and therefore it has failed to impress 
the mind of the reader with the sublimity there displayed. 
One morning the sun shone out so clear that we saw the 
beautiful rainbow, forming about two-thirds of a circle, 
and a dim one reflected beyond it. Well may it be con- 
sidered, as some who have traveled much have termed 
it, the greatest natural curiosity yet discovered in the 
world. I hope that both of you, my dear daughters, can 
have the opportunity of seeing these Falls for yourselves. 
I took leave of them with the feeling that they would 
still flow on in awful grandeur, and be gazed upon in 
wonder for ages yet to come. The motion from the very 
beginning of the rapids is such that it impresses the 
spectator with the idea that the hurry will subside, but 
12 



170 Life and Letters of 

however long he may gaze, he finds no abatement ; and 
in amazement he traces the waters to their starting- 
place. He considers how great a volume of water is 
rushing down this river from the lakes, and that the 
supply is equal to the overflow. 

. From Niagara, by way of Lewiston, we crossed 
Lake Ontario, a beautiful sheet of green water, to 
Toronto. The sun shone brilliantly, and hot as the 
weather was, I sat awhile on the upper deck, viewing 
the placid bosom of the lake, and seeing the sky and 
water meet in every direction. Terra firma had been 
removed from view entirely. 

We dined on board the steamer, in company with 
several Englishmen, who treated us with much polite- 
ness and attention. 

On reaching Toronto we rode some distance through 
the flourishing city and through a well-improved country 
beyond it, to Nicholas Brown's, where we arrived just 
before midnight. However, even at that late hour, we 
were made welcome by our kind friends. Indeed, they 
seemed almost overjoyed to see us. They had not re- 
ceived my letter, and therefore were not looking for us, 
though Margaret had been talking about me. 

We are all pretty well, though the weather is ex- 
ceedingly warm — as warm perhaps as any that we have 
felt this summer, and so dry here that the fields are 
brown and parched. 

I am anxiously looking for letters, feeling that I 



Mary S. Lippincott. 171 

am far off, and a long time absent from home. If I can 
only hear that you are well, I shall feel easy. 
Thy loving mother, 

M. S. L. 

TO GEORGE HATTON. 

Moorestown, Tenth Month 27th, 1854. 

Beloved Friend — Whom I esteem as an elder brother 
in Christ — I often feel it in my heart to salute thee in 
the love of the everlasting Gospel, and bid thee God- 
speed on thy journey toward Canaan. 

How pleasant it was to behold thy face once more, 
when in a land of strangers ; but still more pleasant to 
feel that, with all the perils and bufferings and commo- 
tions, our faith in the saving principle and power of 
God, manifested within, remains unchanged ; that we 
have not parted with the stable truth for all the cun- 
ningly devised fables, gotten up in the will and wisdom 
of man, who by adhering to them is unstable as water. 
"See the Quakers, how they love one another." This 
remains with those who have passed from death unto 
life, for their love is founded on and centered in God, 
who is love, and who is unchangeable. They are bound 
in one bundle, united in one spirit, and are prepared to 
rejoice together in his presence, where they mingle in 
prayer, in baptism, in suffering for the body's sake, and 
in thanksgiving and in praise. These beholding each 
other's countenances are made glad, for they see re- 
flected there the image of that Divine Being whom they 



172 Life and Letters of 

love, whom they adore, and whom they desire to worship 
in spirit and in truth. If this consolation is afforded 
kindred spirits here, while shackled with clay tenements, 
how complete must it be hereafter, when these are cast 
off as a worn-out garment, and the spirit, the soul im- 
mortal, is robed in Light. O the unspeakable joys of 
the Celestial world! Neither the tongue of man nor 
of angel can declare it to the full, while we are finite 
beings, though we may have a glorious foretaste thereof, 
even in this lower world. When our hearts are raised in 
fervency of prayer to our God, He lifts us above transi- 
tory things, for a little time, that we may believe in Him, 
and in his promises, so as not to give back in days of 
trial and sore conflict, neither to despair of his aid. 

How beautiful is the world in which we are placed, 
and how numerous are the blessings that descend upon 
our habitations. If mankind would only live in obedi- 
ence to the in-speaking Word, this earth would be like 
a paradise, and our happiness would be augmented from 
day to day. No man would harm or hurt his brother, 
or do any violence to his neighbor ; but all would act up 
to the injunction of our Saviour, "Therefore all things 
whatsoever ye would that men should do to you, do ye 
even so to them. 1 ' Thus would each be promoting the 
happiness of his fellow, and helping him through this 
to another world, even his everlasting home. Then, the 
nearer the approach to this home, the happier should we 
be, from the assurance of "joy unspeakable and full of 
glory." 



Mary S. Lippincott. 173 

Oh, that the children of men were wise nnto salva- 
tion ! Then would they obey the Light within, which is 
a certain Guide, and a faithful instructor, always ready 
to show the way to peace and everlasting Life. 

Oh, that Friends would come home to this, and be 
established in Christ : that they would hold up Jesus 
Christ ; that they would " preach Christ crucified, unto 
the Jews a stumbling-block, and unto the Greeks fool- 
ishness : " but "the power of God unto salvation to 
every one that believeth." This would do more to re- 
form the world, and to make men Christians, than would 
all the works so lauded b}^ a busy and active genera- 
tion. 

The stream cannot rise higher than its fountain, 
nor can its waters be of any other nature than those of 
the source whence it issues — if impure they cannot 
cleanse, if bitter they cannot console. Is it not time for 
people to gather around the living fountain, and there 
wait for the living water, that they thirst no more, be- 
cause the well of life is in them bubbling up for them to 
drink ? I feel an encouraging hope that there is an 
increasing concern on these accounts ; and that it is not 
limited to age, but that among the youth there is a 
visitation, and a call to tread the way of self-denial. If 
these will only abide under the preparing Hand, till 
fitted for service, I believe that they will be sent into 
the harvest-fields to labor, and that their labors will be 
blest. 

I was pleased to hear that your Yearly Meeting 



174 Life and Letters of 

was favored, aud I hope that that of Baltimore will be 
also. John Hunt has gone to attend it. Elisha Hunt 
and Sarah are visiting meetings, as way opens, within 
the limits of our own Yearly Meeting. I hope the 
Master will send thee and thy wife to visit these parts, 
ere long, and that He will give thee oil in thy horn for 
anointing. 

Isaac unites with me in love, aud in desires for your 
preservation. I remain 

Thy sincere friend, 

M. S. L. 

TO THE SAME. 

Ninth Month, 1868. 
My Dear Friend: — The remembrance of former 
years, when we used to gather in social mingling and in 
religious fellowship, is not lost sight of; and mentally I 
often view thee in thy retirement and wonder how it 
fares with thee. With this memory and this view comes 
the hope that thy lamp may continue to be replenished 
with oil, so as to burn brightly till the close of thy pil- 
grimage. I am glad to know that thou art still able to 
get out to meetings, and to visit thy friends occasionally. 
I trust that the meetings now, as they formerly were, 
are seasons of Divine favor, in which Truth has the 
victory over all. Where the love of the Father flows 
unobstructed, it seems as though the whole soul is 
drawn out in thanksgiving and praise, so that the 
tongue has to give utterance thereto ; not only to adore 



Mary S. Lippincott. 175 

his great and excellent name, but also to invite others 
to come, taste and see that the L,ord is good and gracious 
in his dealings with the sons and daughters of men, in 
order to lead them in the way of obedience. Surely 
those who abide at the Fountain, and receive from his 
bountiful hand, must feel ofttimes that their cup run- 
neth over, and they have to hand out of its contents, for 
the refreshment of others. The patriarch Jacob con- 
tinued his labors till his close. His last benediction 
was wonderful ere " he gathered up his feet into the 
bed and yielded up the ghost." Was not this an evi- 
dence that God had blessed him all his days, and that 
he had performed his vows, made at the time of his 
deep trial, when he felt desolate and forsaken ? Oh, 
how many have given evidence of the plentitude of his 
power, and of the increase of the Gospel stream, with 
length of days, until its aboundings were continual. 
When the physical powers have failed, the spiritual 
perceptions have brightened, till, the outer world seem- 
ing to be shut out, the inner has become more glorious 
than ever before ; and they could sound the Lord's 
praise in one continued out-pouring of expression. The 
evening of life, amidst the aboundings of his love, has 
always seemed to me as the happiest period. The cares, 
anxieties and turmoils, attendant upon our pilgrimage 
journey being over, we have only to wait in quiet ex- 
pectation that ere long a sweet voice will be heard, 
saying, ■" Having been faithful in thy day, now enter 
into rest." Happy indeed the latter days of those who 



176 Life and Letters of 

are thus awaiting their change, for they are assured of 
the crown immortal to be placed on their heads. 

I trust that such may be thy experience, after a life 
of labor in the church, keeping in the harness until the 
journey is ended and the work done. When retired in 
stillness I often visit thee, and always with this feeling, 
believing as I do in the all-sufficiency of the anointing 
power to qualify in old age as in youth or in middle life, 
for preaching the Gospel in the demonstration of the 
spirit, and that the stream widens and enlarges accord- 
ing to our dedication and faithfulness. 

As the infirmities of age multiply, there is, in our 
surroundings, less to interest us ; and as my dear 
mother, in her afflictions, used to say, " Nothing to bind 
me to earth." 

I remain thy loving friend, 

M. S. L. 

TO HER GRANDDAUGHTER, E. L. 

Camden, N. J., First Month ist, 1884. 

My Dear Granddaughter: — While Daniel is out, 
and Isaac is with his aunts, I will write a few lines to 
thee to say that it was very kind of thee to be willing to 
spare thy husband and sou long enough to make us a 
visit. 

We do appreciate it very much, and we enjoy the 
precious boy as well as his dear father. If thyself and 
Richard had come it would have increased the pleasure ; 
but we hope that visit is in reserve. They seem to have 



Mary S. Lippincott. 177 

enjoyed meeting their relatives, and Isaac has made 
friends with all, winning love and admiration wherever 
he went. We all think he is a very good boy, evincing 
the judicious and affectionate training of a mother's 
gentle hand. 

Thy letter, which came yesterday, shows a bright- 
ness in the absence of thy dear ones, and a disposition 
to bear up in hope of their safe return, when Isaac will 
be able to entertain you with much that he has seen 
and learned. This trip and its incidents will not be 
soon forgotten by him, and his brother Richard may 
be made acquainted, by hearsay, with many things to 
draw his thoughts Eastward. What a halo children cast 
around the family circle. Especially is this the case 
when they are intelligent and inquiring. 

This evening the dear ones are to leave us ; and we 
trust they will find safety and protection, in the keeping 
of that kind Providence that watches over us wherever 
our lots may be cast. 

They found us much better in health, and I hope 
we may get out again if the weather should clear and 
the snow melt. 

It will remain a great comfort to me that I have 
once more seen Daniel, and have also looked upon his 
dear son. If life be spared, I shall hope to greet thee 
and Richard some time. I know it is far to come from 
St. Louis to Camden, yet way sometimes opens for us, 
and is made easy, beyond our human calculations. 



178 Life and Letters of 

From what I have learned, I shall seem to see yon, 
and almost to locate you in your own home. 

May the Good Shepherd keep, us, and aid us all in 
eyeing the hedge that encloses us in the sheepfold ; and 
may He keep the lambs with us in our affections, and in 
our prayers enable us to give them to the Lord that He 
may bless them. 

Farewell ! Love to thy father and to little Richard. 
Thy loving grandmother, 

M. S. L. 



DETACHED PARAGRAPHS. 

FROM THE LETTERS OF M. S. E. 

Where grace abounds it regulates all, and centres 
the mind, but where its offers are rejected, longer steps 
are taken in the broad way of so-called pleasure. — No 
date. 

I know the lonely feeling of a young person for 
want of congenial society ; for when in my youth I 
withdrew from the giddy round, I trod the loneliness of 
my way for a season. But, in his own time, my Heav- 
enly Father made a way for me to mingle with those 
who loved Him, and who delighted in his commandments. 
— No date. 

I feel to commend you in your efforts to educate 
your children ; for with Job Scott I do believe that too 



Mary S. Uppincott. 179 

much rusticity is not an advantage to a Christian. — No 
date. 

At Quarterly Meeting Friends have certainly 

had the best of help to sustain them, and have known 
their heads to be covered in the day of battle. — No date. 

Since our last Yearly Meeting I think we have 
cause to lift up our heads in hope ; there was manifested 
there such a gathered feeling, such an increase of love 
and harmony, with an evident desire, on the part of 
many, to rally to first principles, even to those which 
brought us together as a people. — No date. 

When the cares of this life press down the better 
part in us, we fall into a condition of spiritual lethargy 
from which nothing but Divine Grace can redeem us. 
" No cross, no crown " — how much is contained in these 
words. — No date. 

Eternity seems very much nearer than it did when 
I was a child, and the dear departed do not seem very 
far off, only gone before to a better world, to an un- 
changing state. When we have finished our days in 
this lower world, may we be ready to meet those who 
are gathered into the Heavenly garner. — No date. 

I am always interested to hear items of moment 
concerning thy family. I think it good for parents and 
children to remain together in one household, so long as 
they can rightfully do it, loving and companionable. 
Where this is the case the parents are affable to the 
children, and the children confiding in the parents ; so 



180 Life aqd Letters of 

as to be mutually helpful in the aseeut and descent of 
the hill of life. — No date. 

If we were satisfied with what is revealed to us, and 
to our children, I believe we should be willing to leave 
the secret things which belong to God. I want no strife 
of tongues, and have no interest in contention. To pro- 
mote (as a very feeble instrument) Truth and righteous- 
ness, and to live in peace with all mankind during the 
time yet allotted me in this state of being, is what I 
desire. — No date. 

There are' many allurements in view to entice the 
young, but I have great faith in the endeavors of parents 
to keep the ground fallow, and to prevent the weeds 
from growing during the period of childhood and youth. 
Then will the children as they grow older (and especially 
if separated from the tender hands that reared them) 
feel urged to the same work — that of attending to the 
garden of the heart, to dress and to keep it. Early 
training does a great deal towards a right growth. — No 
date. 

I felt it a great cross to give up the fashions and 
amusements that I had indulged in ; but I found a 
Power sufficient to remove every obstacle, and to make 
for me an easy and pleasant way within the limits of 
Divine love. — No date. 

Oh, the Church ! May strength be afforded your 
spirits to travail for its arising ; for its coming out of 
the wilderness into the clear light of the sun ! May we 
all seek for the spirit of prayer and supplication, to be 



Mary S. Lippincott. 181 

preserved from the temptations held out on every hand 
to draw aside from the way of the cross ! I feel, indeed, 
feeble and of little account. Still I hope to be protected 
to the end. Farewell ! — No dale. 

Where Friends are few in number, if they meet as 
they ought, they can have Heavenly Meetings. — No 
date. 

Many are the heavy-hearted in our Yearly Meeting, 
in view of the state of Society ; but I believe the only 
way is to repair to the Fountain and there wait in all 
humility, leaving the issue with the great Controller of 
events. There seems to be a disposition to sustain new 
doctrine, and this disposition causes many to suffer ; but 
good may come even out of the suffering. — No date. 

In some of our smaller meetings there is manifested 
a dull, drowsy spirit ; and when this is indulged in, how 
it lays waste the strength, and how it discourages those 
who come to these gatherings to renew their covenants, 
and to experience a being refreshed from the mingling 
with exercised spirits. — No date. 

The grandeur and sublimity of Nature's works in- 
spire the heart with gratitude. Who can behold and not 
admire the works of an Almighty Creator ? — No date. 

May the fathers and the mothers who cleave to the 
law and the testimony be strengthened to distribute the 
bread, with the Master's blessing. This bread will 
satisfy hungry souls, and strengthen them to seek an 
acquaintance with Him who gives freely to those who 
ask Him, if they ask aright. — No date. 



182 Life and Letters of 

The unsettlement and agitation, in one place and 
another, are discouraging ; and they cause the Lord's 
servants to go on their way mourning and heavy-hearted. 
— No date. 

I am very favorable to Monthly Meeting Schools ; 
believing that they will prove a benefit to the Society. 
— No date. 

Our Yearly Meeting was large, and it proved to be 
a ver}' comfortable and favored season. The solemnity 
was remarkable, and a precious covering was over us at 
the close. After the reading of the concluding Minute 
it was some time before any one seemed ready to rise. — 
No dale. 

There is much concern on the subject of education ; 
but a good, substantial, guarded education is the kind to 
which I feel most bound ; and it is to this that I hope 
I shall continue to look, rather than to the fashionable 
polish of the day, so long as I continue to be at the head 
of an educational institution. — No date. 

I think the life of the religion of Jesus is very low, 
indeed ; and I do not know whether there is enough of 
a willingness to go down into suffering, baptism, and 
death ; so as to arise with Christ, and be able to hold 
Him up as the life of the " Christian Quaker." Surely 
we shall have to undergo a shaking, and a purifying, 
that there may be more consistency seen amongst a peo- 
ple making so high a profession as does the Society of 
Friends. — No date. 

We think that the Discipline ought to be more 



Mary S. Lippiqcott. 183 

promptly attended to in cases of removal ; and especially 
that Certificates should go in a regular channel to the 
Monthly Meetings, and not to the individuals for whom 
they are sent. An attention to order prevents trouble. 
—1849. 

After the interment of the body of our beloved 
friend Edward Hicks, we dined with a Friend who gave 
lis a production emanating from the Meeting for Suffer- 
ings of Indiana Yearly Meeting. Not only is the lan- 
guage true, but the feeling on reading it was solemn ; 
for, like Gospel ministry, it is clothed with authority. 
—1849. 

We lately visited our friend John Comly. He is 
better, and has been once out at meeting. — 1849. 

We have had a very acceptable and truly edifying 
visit from dear George Hatton, who attended our Quar- 
terly Meeting last Fifth-day, and had an appointed 
meeting in our village that evening. His ministry is 
deep and powerful. He preaches baptizingly. I regard 
it as a privilege to sit under his ministry, and it is com- 
forting to find that he stands upon that ground upon 
which stood our worthy predecessors. Like that worthy 
elder, George Fox, he is firm in the faithful support of 
our wholesome Discipline, and comely order. My hus- 
band and myself took him to Bristol, Pa., on Sixth-day, 
where he had an evening meeting, which was well 
attended and highly favored, for he had good service 
therein. 

Next day we went to Byberry, to the house where 



184 Life and Letters of 

our valued friend, John Comly, recently passed away. 
We passed two days with his children, and attended 
Byberry Meeting on First-day. It was a season to be 
remembered ; the doctrine plain and close, flowed freely 
and largely. Not a feeling could arise to obstruct the 
Gospel stream ; and I thought we could say, " Sing ye 
unto the Lord, for He hath triumphed gloriously," &c. 
After a solemn opportunity at the house of Sarah Comly 
we separated ; Nathaniel Richardson taking George to 
Newtown, and we returning home, with the sweet reward 
of peace. — 1850. 

From Baltimore Yearly Meeting we have favorable 
accounts. A good meeting, and several strangers in 
attendance ; amongst them dear John Hunt. — 1850. 

I may suffer loss in best things, and sometimes 
I fear that I do, by not attending to small duties from 
home. Obedience is everything : you know this, dear 
Friends, and though I may be slack, yet would I encour- 
age you to let obedience keep pace with knowledge, that 
your day's work may be going on, in the day-time, a 
peaceful evening succeed, and at the end the reward of 
" well done " be yours. — 1850. 

Some Friends do not agree with me in 1113- opposition 
to divorces. I disapprove of receiving any one into the 
Societ}' who has been divorced and remarried. — 1850. 

Too few of the older people seem to manifest that 
tenderness and humility which are so convincing, and 
so encouraging to those who are younger in life, as well 
as in religious experience. Has our love waxed cold, or 



Mary S. Lippincott. 185 

do the cares of this life choke the seed, and render it 
unfruitful ? There must be some cause for this state of 
things among us. But I suppose we must look ahead; 
believing the Power is the same that ever it was, and 
that the great Head of the Church is able to build us up, 
and establish us upon that rock against which nothing 
can prevail. — 1852. 

Oh! when I look back at Society, as it used to be, 
in the days of my youth, how bright it appears. I hope 
to see a rallying, and an arising in brightness, before 
I leave the world. I hope to be more faithful and obedi- 
ent myself, that I may contribute my mite towards a 
restoration. — 1852. 

Our granddaughter is to be married on Fifth-day, 
at the house of her father, Granville S. Woolman, which 
is on the old "plantation " where John Woolman lived, 
and where he killed the robin. — 1852. 

My husband has felt very desirous that thy faith 
may not fail thee ; but that by obedience and faithful- 
ness in all things, thou may be able to keep on with the 
work required of thee, turning neither to the right hand 
nor to the left, nor shrinking from any duty. — 1853. 

I was pleased to hear from you, through Sarah 
Hunt, and was glad to hear that she homed at your 
father's. Mary G. Allen was here, not long since ; 
though her physical health is frail, she is lively in 
spirit. John Hunt has gone to the meetings in the limits 
of Nottingham and Southern Quarters, and Ruth Pyle 
and Mary Pike to Bucks Quarter. They are all dedi- 

13 



186 Life and Letters of 

cated servants, and I am glad to hear of such being out 
on religious visits. — 1853. 

I think it is much more desirable to increase the 
size of your farm, than to let the young people squander 
to find other business. How many, on this very account, 
have left Friends. How few of our young men are 
found pursuing the path of humble industry on their 
farms, and yet what business life is more pleasant than 
an agricultural one. — 1853. 

I felt near unity with thee when first I met thee, 
at Westtown. I have never experienced any diminution 
of this feeling, and I hope I never may. — 1853. 

I am fond of school and of the society of the young, 
also concerned that they may have a guarded education, 
and one that will not puff them up or place them above 
the swift witness for God in their own souls. It is also 
my aim to keep them from indulging in such amuse- 
ments as I consider out of the simplicity of the Truth. 
I am also opposed to their reading works of fiction. I 
find that of those under my care there are many who 
respect my views and sympathize with my feelings, so 
that counsel on these subjects may be comparable to 
bread cast upon the waters. — 1853. 

Oh ! that the qualified laborers may go into the 
harvest field and thrust in the sickle, that the harvest 
may be gathered. — 1853. 

Oh, that we may all keep humble, in the nothing- 
ness of self! then, though the potsherds of the earth 
smite together, we shall not be hurt. — 1853. 



Mary S. Lippincott. 187 

The disciples of Jesus were always a despised few ; 
buffeted, reviled, spit upon ; but strength has ever been 
given to endure all things, and suffer all things, that 
their joy might be full. — 1853. 

We attended Baltimore Yearly Meeting, which was 
large, and for the most part favored. Latterly some of 
their pillars have been removed by death, which depri- 
vation they sensibly feel. — 1853. 

Dear John Jewett seems meek as a child, and 
Susanna is very much missed. Nicholas and Margaret 
Brown are in good keeping, cheerful, yet feeling much 
concerned for the welfare of Society. They expressed 
their near and dear unity with thee. We made them a 
visit last summer, and a very pleasant one it was, being 
the fulfilment of what we had long desired. — 1853. 

Restore S. Lamb is in the Southern States on a 
religious visit. We have a letter from him written in 
Richmond, Virginia, in which he speaks of having been 
kindly received. He has had a number of interviews 
with ministers of other denominations. He thinks that 
the way to effect the great work of emancipation, would 
be to go among the slave-holders and expostulate with 
them. — 1853. 

We consider ourselves of too little account, and too 
weak to strengthen the hands of a dear, tried brother, 
to whom we feel knit in the fellowship of the Gospel of 
Christ.— 1853. 

I do not marvel that there are few so devoted as 
were our early Friends. So many have cumbering 



188 Life and Letters of 

cares, whereby to plead, " I pray thee Have me excused." 
I think, however, there are many that love the principle, 
and some that are even willing to bear the cross. — 1853. 

The world's polish makes a beautiful outside ; and 
carved work, in this " refined age," is more admired than 
substantial material. But what would the carving be 
worth if the substance upon which it is wrought be of 
no value. — 1853. 

Nothing can preserve us, as a religious body, but 
the Truth, plain and simple as it is, uncouth as it may 
sound to the worldly ear. — 1853. 

How happy those who can keep in the peaceable 
spirit of Jesus, firm and steadfast, but meek and patient. 
The lion and the lamb shall dwell together. I am 
thankful that my lot has been cast amongst Friends ; 
yet I mourn over our Society, seeing that our faith 
appears to be too nearly allied to that " which is overcome 
by the world." As the world takes possession of our 
hearts, we run out into its spirit, into pride, high-mind- 
edness, covetousness, and into many new and foolish 
notions and speculations. — 1854. 

Mind the Light, a light that shines within, en- 
lightening the conscience until the day dawn, and the 
Da}^-star arise in the heart, and direct us to the Young 
Child, who is the Son of promise, to sit upon the 
throne forever. The Light gives 4l certain evidence of 
Divine Truth" — not speculative notions and theories, 
nay, verily ! but a clear sight of spiritual things, and a 



Mary S. Lippincott. 189 

true discernment of the spirits of those who promulgate 
them. — 1854. 

The late Yearly Meeting in Ohio, though weak as 
to numbers, afforded some encouragement ; for a solidity 
was present which furnished evidence of a travail in 
Zion. — 1854. 

I am pleased to find that there is a general interest 
and concern on the subject of 'education, and a desire 
that our schools be taught by those are not merely 
members, but who are consistent Friends. Early im- 
pressions are lasting, and the example set the children, 
and the influences surrounding them, are likely to oper- 
ate either favorably or unfavorably. . Hence the im- 
portance of their receiving moral and religious training 
along with the intellectual. Too many disregard our 
testimonies in favor of plainness, and the avoidance of 
amusements, &c, thus making it difficult for those who 
are concerned on these points to have our schools care- 
fully guarded against innovations. Of course there is 
no objection to innocent childish sport, either at school 
or at home. Play is natural to the young, and we would 
not forbid, but carefully regulate these sports. In our 
Yearly Meeting, we are encouraged to persevere in es- 
tablishing Friends' schools. — 1854. 

Friends were raised up to be a peculiar people ; a 
plain, self-denying people, led and guided by the Holy 
Spirit into a spiritual and heavenly way. —1854. 

Many are like the dove going forth from the ark, 
and finding no rest for their feet, because the unstable 



190 Life and Letters of 

element covers the earth. The waters have riot subsided, 
but are agitated by ever}- wiud of doctrine. Oh, when, 
to these unsettled ones will the solid laud appear ? 
When will they be drawn to meet together and worship 
around the Son, each sitting under his vine, and under 
his fig-tree, where none can make afraid? — 1854. 

If Friends who are real Friends would only be firm, 
a better time would soon come ; because that which is of 
man would be judged down, the power of the Highest 
would be sustained, and his devoted servants would be 
sustained in that power. — 1854. 

None but the redeemed of the Lord can support our 
testimonies in their integrity. None but those who have 
obeyed the call to come out of Babylon. — 1854. 

We were glad to hear of your welfare, also that you 
were favored with a comfortable Yearly Meeting. The 
many deficiencies cause the Lord's servants to go on 
their way mourning ; yet, we find that there are still 
those of the true seed whose faith remains unchanged, 
and this is cause for encouragement. — 1854. 

The outlook toward your place is pleasant, for we 
think that the Light is shining there ; and that it will 
yet shine brighter, causing an increase, and an in-gath- 
ering.— 1854. 

We had a very large and interesting Yearly Meet- 
ing. Greater solemnity and harmony, perhaps, have not 
been known within our recollection, throughout all the 
sittings. We have cause to feel gratitude to the great 
Giver of all good. — 1855. . 



Mary S. Lippincott. 191 

I believe if we know the Father and the Son, and 
own them ; we shall also know the purpose of Christ's 
coming in a prepared body. — 1855. 

If parents would come into simplicity and self- 
denial, then I believe the dear children would be gath- 
ered, and turned away from seeking enjoyment in those 
alluring things which are so fleeting and uncertain. 

-i855- 

Your epistles always meet with a cordial welcome, 
for they convey the evidence that you are of the house- 
hold of faith. Yea, of that faith, not only once delivered 
to the saints, but that continues to be delivered in every 
age and generation to the saints in Christ Jesus. — 1855. 

We have reason to comprehend the things of a man ; 
but a spirit in man by which to know the things per- 
taining to God. The attempt to substitute reason for 
revelation, is the result of man's having partaken of the 
forbidden fruit. — 1855. 

How serious, how weighty is the consideration of 
the many sayings uttered by the blessed Jesus, concern- 
ing those who would not own Him. — 1855. 

Friends have always acknowledged Christ, the Head 
of the Church, the Light and the Life. — 1855. 

I think it is a privilege to move in a plain way, 
even in school ; teaching only those branches that are 
useful and substantial. — 1856. 

It takes many baptisms and deaths, before we be- 
come regenerated and born again, and know of a cer- 
tainty that we have passed from death unto life, because 



192 Life and Letters of 

we love the brethren. It is only after this regeneration 
that we can "bless them that curse" us, and pray for 
them that " despitefully use " us. This is what I desire 
to attain to, and to be established in. — 1856. 

Did you see the account of the burning of the ferry- 
boat on the Delaware River ? So many lives lost, so 
near to the shore, it seems almost unaccountable. — 1856. 

Dear Friends, my love flows toward you, with de- 
sires that the Lord will bless you with the continued 
incomes of light and life into your souls, to make you 
"fruitful in the field of offering, and joyful in the house 
of prayer." " Greater is He that is in you, than he that 
is in the world." — 1856. 

The tide of fashion runs strong and swift, threaten- 
ing to overwhelm all ; but there is a Power that can stay 
its mighty waves. There is encouragement from behold- 
ing the number (even in the younger walks of life) who 
love our meetings, and manifest an interest in our prin- 
ciples and testimonies, including the one in favor of 
plainness of speech and apparel. If these keep their 
places they will be first stripped, and then clothed with 
the whole armor of light. — 1856. 

I suppose the privilege with you, in your meetings, 
as with Friends elsewhere, is to suffer as well as to 
rejoice ; for the seed is under suffering, and is pressed 
down, " as a cart is pressed that is under sheaves." — 
1856. 

We desire that you be faithful and obedient in all 
things ; remembering that strength is furnished accord- 



Mary S. Lippiricott. 193 

ing to the need. The reward for obedience and dedica- 
tion is sweet peace even while in this life, and in that 
which is to come, "Joy unspeakable." — 1856. 

Oh, that I may stand upon the watch-tower, and 
keep in a prayerful state, that I may be preserved in 
humble estimation of self. I have none to fear so much 
as myself. — 1857. 

We had a large meeting yesterday, and both sittings 
were much favored. They seemed like good old times 
when " they that feared the Lord spake often one to an- 
other, and a book of remembrance was made." Harmony 
and sisterly love seemed to abound, and the solemn quiet 
gave evidence that the good Shepherd had us in his 
keeping. — 1857. 

Our friend Jacob S. Willets (son of Samuel) was 
bitten by a rabid dog 011 the first of Sixth Month. 
About a week ago he died of hydrophobia. It was a dis- 
tressing case. — 1857. 

My husband's health is very poor ; he has been ill 
several times within the past two months. He is advised 
to go to the shore (should he get able), and even if not 
strong enough to take a surf bath, the inhalation of the 
salt air, it is thought will invigorate him. — 1857. 

Klisha Hunt is rather better. Sarah went to Gene- 
see Yearly Meeting, but hastened home, not feeling easy 
to be long absent from her husband. The aged are pass- 
ing away, and some of those who remain are quite 
feeble. — 1857. 

My husband has been more comfortable during the 



194 Life and Letters of 

past few weeks ; he is now better than his friends ever 
expected to see him again, and as he has survived the 
summer, he may continue awhile longer. He gets out 
to meeting prett}- regularly ; and frequently takes a 
short ride in the forenoon, when the weather is pleasant. 
His brother Abraham Lippincott, and his nephew Peter 
Lippiucott, both died recently ; the latter very suddenly 
in Cherry Street Meeting. Many, very man}', of our 
dear relatives and friends, are passing away, and oh ! 
what a change it makes in the social circle, and in our 
religious meetings. But this is a changing state. To 
be ready and willing to go hence, when the time comes, 
is of all things most to be desired. — 1857. 

Oh ! how I desire that Friends may draw near to 
the well of life, and there wait, to receive from the Mas- 
ter living water, and to dispense only what they receive 
from Him ; that when they invite, it may be to "Come, 
see a man which told me all things that ever I did." 

-1857. 

Silence has held dominion over my pen, but it is not 
an instance of "affection's stream arrested in its course." 
I have been too much occupied to write to my friends, 
however much I desired to do so. Oh, how the world 
engrosses me ! Even when I feel as though it is all as 
nothing to me, and when I seek retirement and seclu- 
sion, I have to be conspicuous. But perhaps it is all 
right ; for I was not created for myself alone. — 1857. 

It seems as if a great deal has occurred since I last 
saw thee ; and though much has been done, yet I hardly 



Mary S. Lippincott. 195 

know how to refer to it, to any advantage. But to poor 
self I can refer, and tell thee that the old Reasoner has 
made me a good deal of trouble, in persuading me that 
I could not leave home to finish my visit to the meetings 
of Bucks Quarter. Oh, what poverty of spirit is the 
result ! or has been, until it seemed as though all good 
was gone, and I was left as in the barren desert. By 
suffering I have been made willing to go and finish this 
work ; after which I trust I may be permitted, for the 
present, to stay at home and attend to my temporal 
concerns. I have been feeling greatly discouraged, and 
sometimes almost ready to give out by the way. — 1857. 
Our school is full, and we could not accommodate 
all that applied to enter. We have a very pleasant 
company of pupils, and get along satisfactorily in every 
department. When a load is ready, and there is force 
enough applied to start the wheel, it will roll around 
with apparent ease ; so we find it to be in this establish- 
ment. I do love school, and love to mingle with the 
young. We have one pupil (about eighteen years of 
age), who wears a plain silk bonnet. She is a lovely 
girl, and quite a favorite with the others. I have not 
heard of one passing remark that was unkind or unbe- 
coming, having been made by her schoolmates con- 
cerning her. This, I think, is an evidence of the re- 
spectful demeanor of our pupils. I hope that this feeling 
may continue, and that the young members of our Society 
may come to see the propriety of a simple dress and of 
its consistency with our profession. Oh, how well do I 



196 Life aqd Letters of 

remember the cross I had to bear, when, for the sake of 
peace of mind, I had to put on a plain dress, and become 
a subject of remark, and sometimes even of ridicule. 
But there was a sustaining Power that enabled me to 
despise the shame, and that became to me far more than 
any worldly enjoyment. — 1857. 

I feel it obligatory upon me to observe plainness 
and moderation, and it has become easy to me to do so, 
only by bearing the cross. I think that examples in 
these things (economy, as well as the cut and shape of 
the garment) are abundantly wanting in this day, when 
luxury and superfluity are so much indulged in, and 
when many plume themselves, and seem ready to fly off 
into the air. — 1857. 

Ah ! there is but one way for Friends, and that is 
the good old way of implicit obedience, of a submission 
to the cross of Christ. — 1857. 

Isaac has been more poorly, and he has again very 
wearisome nights. He has been much resigned to his 
sufferings, and to the prospect of not being a great while 
with us ; but satisfied, I think, to leave all to the great 
Disposer of events, believing that He doeth all things 
well. — 1857. 

In wisdom are the ways of Providence, and He 
worketh wonders in the deep. Finite beings cannot 
scan Omnipotence, neither can they comprehend his 
mysterious workings, nor search into the secret things 
which belong to God. It is enough for us to know and 
believe that He is good, and that He designs to bless 



Mary S. Lippiricott. 197 

the inhabitants of the earth, and to bestow happiness 
upon all the rational family upon these terms, that we 
repent and be baptized with the baptism of the Holy 
Ghost and of fire. Did we not believe in God, mani- 
fested in Jesus Christ — did we not believe in a Saviour 
and Redeemer, ever present and ready to save and to 
help, where should we flee in time of trouble ? To whom 
should we look when every earthly dependence fails ? — 
1858. 

Dear Cousin S ! How often have I thought of the 
sweetness of her spirit, and especially so since her last 
visit to us. Well, she lived a very innocent, and as I 
think, happy life. She had an affectionate husband and 
kind children, and lived, we must believe, the time 
allotted her in this state of change ; and now, we trust, 
she has received a crown immortal and unfading. Her 
precious spirit was covered as with a mantle that in 
its descending may rest upon those who beheld her 
departure. May the everlasting Arm be made bare to 
uphold thee, and to encircle thy precious offspring. — 
1858. 

In my stripping and loneliness I feel poor, un- 
worthy of the least favor, and not qualified to give even 
a cup of cold water to the thirsty traveler ; yet since 
the reception of thy kind and deeply interesting letter, 
I have felt more than I can express, and I thought a 
little reply might not intrude upon thy quiet meditation. 
-1858. 

During the last two months of his life, my beloved 



198 Life and Letters of 

husband was able to say that his work was done ; that 
his greatest desire and concern through life had been 
to serve his Divine Master ; that he had endeavored to 
be faithful, and for months, by day and by night, he 
had enjoyed continual peace amid much bodily suffering. 
To be thus sustained at the last is what I greatly desire 
for myself and for others. — 1858. 

In pondering over the mysterious formation of man, 
I cannot but believe that he is designed to be as happy 
here, as his capacity will admit, and that nothing is 
wanting to the perfecting of this but entire resignation 
to the Divine will. A willingness to be led and guided 
by the unerring spirit of Truth will lead by rivers of 
pleasure that water the earth, as they flow on to the 
Infinite Sea, where death is swallowed up in immortality. 
-1859. 

Though surrounded by a large and interesting 
family, I often feel lonely for the want of some one to 
confer with, who would be interested, as I am, in things 
nearer and dearer to me than are the affairs of this life. 
I pass very many such lonely hours, and trust that I am 
resigned to pass them ; believing it may prove to be for 
my greatest good. My children, teachers and pupils 
are very kind and attentive ; and Friends, too, remember 
me, and many of them visit me in love. Yes, I have 
many favors for which I am thankful, though there is a 
void left, by the removal of my dear partner, which 
none can fill. I have, however, the sweet consolation 
that he rests in peace, and this reconciles me to the 



Mary S. Lippincott. 199 

separation, and raises me above drooping in sadness, as 
I otherwise should, without my outward armor-bearer. — 
1859. 

Our dear friends Nicholas and Margaret Brown, 
made their home at our house, while attending our 
Quarterly Meeting. They are green in old age, and 
stand upright in support of the good old " Quaker " 
doctrine and Discipline. They are quick-sighted to 
discover error, and way is wonderfully made to receive 
their testimonies. — 1859. 

We have had too much oratory and head-knowledge 
in the name of religion ; and the people have (some of 
them, at least) been carried off into speculation. From 
this there is a warning voice to come away and be sepa- 
rate, that the garment may be undefiled, the heart made 
pure, and a heart religion be ours. Absolom had a 
beautiful head of hair, and great account was made of 
polling his hair, but when he was about to be proclaimed 
king, his locks proved to be the cause of his destruction, 
and the people whose hearts he had stolen away, re- 
turned and gave their allegiance to the lawful king. 
Things transpire alike in different ages. Man is vain 
and imaginative ; but when he becomes lifted up in his 
haughtiness, there is a Power that can intercept his 
course and thwart his plans. None are safe, but as they 
continue in a state of watchfulness unto prayer. — 1859. 

I have my hours of loneliness amid the young and 
buoyant, who are looking forward to an auspicious future 
in this life. They behold a beautiful world before them, 



200 Life and Letters of 

unfolding joys that gladden their hearts and cause them 
to delight in existence. Oh ! did they always keep so 
in the innocency as never to mar the Divine impress, 
how would the waves of happiness roll on in due suc- 
cession, without anything to arrest their flow. Even 
the probations, meted out to sentient beings, would in- 
crease the happiness, for each new trial would loosen a 
link in the chain that binds to earth, and rivet one in 
that which draws to Heaven. — 1859. 

Your letter was both fresh and cheering, as an 
emanation of Gospel love, comparable to a messenger 
bearing glad tidings from the good Land. — 1859. 

The ornaments of dress, where there is a fondness 
for them, are comparable to the little foxes that have 
their hiding-places from which they come out to hurt 
the tender vines. How I long to see the sweet-spirited 
young men and young women, very many of whom are 
near and dear to my best life. Coming under the pre- 
paring and forming Hand, and thus being fitted for 
usefulness in the Church. — 1859. 

My Heavenly Father found me, in early life, ex- 
posed to snares and temptations ; and often when I was 
in the depth of sorrow, known only to myself, He kept 
the guardian angel of his presence near, and wonderfully 
made a way for my preservation. Though I was often 
rebellious, yet before niy twentieth year I renounced the 
world, with its pleasures, its gayety, and its vanity ; 
and endured the cross, despising the shame. I have 
never had reason to regret this renunciation, having 



Mary S. Lippincott. 201 

found so much solid comfort and satisfaction, and be- 
lieving that all my trials have been blest to me. Such 
would be the case with our young people now, if they 
would only submit to the yoke of Christ, though I 
would have them be more faithful than I have been. 
But how many we see, even till middle life, who flit like 
the butterfly in the summer sun. These, peradventure, 
will yet be gathered in the Heavenly enclosure and 
come forth in brightness, after some of our heads have 
been laid low. Such, at least, is my hope. — 1859. s 

I am obliged to R. H. for the part that he is taking 
in preparing for the press a revision of Murray's Readers, 
than which none have ever better suited me. I find it 
difficult to procure books in which the plain language is 
adhered to. Even our grammars depart from it, though 
I try in my teaching to sustain it. — 1862. 

With all its imperfections, I hope our Society is 
gaining ground. Our meetings are increasingly solemn, 
as well as large, though the mid-week meetings in some 
places are not so well attended as they ought to be. 
Many valuable Friends have been gathered to their 
fathers, and we feel the stripping ; but we hope that 
others are under the preparing Hand, and that in time 
they will come forward for service. — 1864. 

Klisha Hunt and wife, and William Folwell and 
wife are still able to mingle with their Friends. My 
dear husband's brothers are all gone. How I miss him 
and them ! They were happy, cheerful men. Restore 
S. Lamb is feeble, as is also Mary G. Allen. Other 

14 



202 Life and Letters of 

Friends, hereaway, are mostly in usual health, though 
many are growing old. — 1864. 

I would that the mourners in Zion might multiply. 
Their prayers are not offered in vain, neither are their 
tears shed for naught. My spirit salutes the Lord's 
servants, and desires their health and prosperity. — 1864. 

Among the absent ones whom I often visit, in 
thought, is your venerable father — my long-tried and 
beloved friend in the fellowship of the Gospel. His 
voice fell sweetly on my ear, and the message reached 
my heart, in my youthful days, when I was fervently 
engaged in seeking the pathway to Zion. Never less 
dear has he been to me, as a father in the Church, and 
I trust a pillar in God's house. — 1865. 

I should love to meet you often during our earthly 
sojourn ; but if we cannot meet face to face, I hope our 
spirits may often mingle in the holy sanctuary, where 
there is a communion, which the commotions of the 
world cannot disturb, and where strength is furnished 
to move upward and forward towards that Land of rest, 
whither I trust we are wending our way, and where we 
shall meet to part no more. — 1865. 

If thoughts could write, I do not know how volu- 
minous would be the packages received by my absent 
friends. — 1865. 

When I call up, and view on memory's page, a host 
of worthies, both those in this world and those in the 
world to come, they seem to pass in review before my 
mental vision, to gladden my solitary hours. It is good 



Mary S. Lippincott. 203 

to see them thus, to know that such have been, and 
some yet are, walking on this goodly earth of ours, as 
pilgrims seeking a far-off country where change is not, 
and where trials never come. — 1865. 

By strong cords of affection, I am bound to the 
human race ; and the farther I advance towards the 
termination of all things here below, the more is my 
heart enlarged in feelings of kindness, tenderness, com- 
passion and sympathy, towards dear friends, and towards 
erring, wayward brethren and sisters as well ; so that 
my heart breathes forth spontaneous aspirations on 
behalf of all. Without the guidance of the Holy Spirit 
man is frail and prone to do evil ; but when obedient 
to the still, small voice, he is only a little lower than the 
angels. — 1865. 

Oh, that the Spirit that covered our forefathers 
might cover us of this generation ! that we might, as 
a Society, put our hands to the plow and not- turn back. 
If we would only draw more and more together, around 
the one Head, Christ, and learn of Him, not attempting 
to lean upon our own understanding, I believe we should 
yet be a blessing to the world. — 1866. 

Friends mingling in visiting families, neighboring 
meetings, &c, under a concern, has I think, a salutary 
influence in binding more closely together, and in awak- 
ening a desire to be more diligent in the attendance of 
mid-week meetings, and in the support of other testi- 
monies. But everything promotive of advantage must 
be done through a right concern. I have, for some years 



204 Life ar\d Letters of 

past, had a First-day school for my pupils, which I trust 
has proved profitable to them, aud I have myself been 
instructed. It brings me much with them on that day, 
and ofttimes opens the way for me, as I feel it, to hold 
up the religion of Jesus Christ, and the confirmation 
by the New Testament, of the Truths stated in the Old. 
—1867. 

When the infirmities of age overtake our parents, 
and other aged ones, we should be patient with them, 
and tender as they were of us, in the days of our child- 
hood. Several who remain in mutability are feeble, 
bodily and mentally ; but I trust that the better part is 
in safe-keeping. — 1867. 

I accompanied my brother and his wife to their 
Quarterly Meeting, held at Fallston, Maryland, having 
obtained a Minute for that service. I believe I was in 
my right place in going, and I was abundantly helped, 
to my humbling admiration, to show what constitutes 
a true Friend, what are the duties of such a one, and 
whence comes the qualification to discharge these duties 
aright. — 1867. 

As many, and some of these among the young, see 
the evil tendency of this restless spirit, we have hope that 
deliverance will come, and that there will be a coming 
up out of the mixture, in our ancient beauty and clear- 
ness. The love of the world's maxims, customs and 
policies has caused our leanness, and hindered our ad- 
vancement. So much lecturing, oratory and running 
to and fro, that the time for silent meditation seems to 



Mary S. Uppincott. 205 

be placed afar off. Silence is the state in which to learn 
wisdom ; indwelling with the Holy Spirit, waiting to 
hear and obey. — 1867. 

I often visit, mentally, my many Western friends, 
and feel fervent desires for your encouragement in the 
right line. Faithfulness brings its reward, though little 
fruit may appear. " Be thou faithful unto death and I 
will give thee a crown of life." Oh the crown, the 
glorious crown ! How we desire it for ourselves and for 
our dear children. Yes, the dear children claim our 
constant anxiety and concern, even when they are com- 
fortably reposing in sleep. This concern, I believe, is 
not lost, though at times we may see no good effects. 
Let us trust and hope for the future. There is tender- 
ness in many of the young, and in time they may be 
broken in upon, with a Power which they cannot with- 
stand. A time of gathering may come, ere our bodies 
are laid in the silent grave. — 1867. 

Hlisha and Sarah Hunt are in usual health, though 
the former goes out but little, owing to his age and a 
stiffness in his limbs. He is very bright mentally and 
tender spirited. — 1867. 

I have recently attended the funeral of the wife of 
Joseph Horner, a valued Friend ; also that of my dear 
cousin, Dr. N. Shoemaker, of Philadelphia. — 1868. 

In our Yearly Meeting we are often burdened with 
much speaking, but this year, in both Philadelphia and 
New York, I thought we had favored periods of solemn 
silence.— 1868. 



206 Life and Letters of 

I have thought for years past, that in some places 
the removals from country neighborhoods to cities have 
been a serious disadvantage to our Society, having led 
out of a plain way of living and a plain way of preach- 
ing.— 1868. 

Hannah Stephens died suddenly, at her nephew's, 
near Mt. Holly, where she and her sister were making 
a visit. Last Seventh-day I saw her niece, who said 
that aunt H. had not been very well, and that she would 
be unable to attend Yearly Meeting. She was a valuable 
Friend.— 1868. 

Where children do all they can to help and comfort 
their parents, how much they can lighten the burdens of 
age and infirmity. — 1868. 

I recently wrote to our aged Friend, George Hatton, 
whom I have regarded ever since my youthful days, 
as my valued friend and counselor in spiritual things. 
How often has he sounded the Gospel trumpet in large 
assemblies, to the warning of the rebellious and way- 
ward, and to the comforting of the mourners in Zion, 
and the heavy-hearted in Jerusalem. — 1868. 

I did not suppose that would be a desirable 

place for you to choose as a home. Friends there have 
decreased in numbers, and the cause of this decrease 
may perhaps be attributed to three conditions, one being 
general and the other two special : unfaithfulness, the 
environment of slavery, and the desire to grow rich. — 
1868. 

There are some who are learned and wise in the 



Mary S. Lippincott. 207 

world's philosophy, who undertake to instruct in our 
religious meetings, to the grief of the sincere-hearted, 
and the suffering of the true seed. — 1868. 

The new birth must be known, ere valiants can 
come forth as did the sons of the morning in our re- 
ligious Society, bold as a lion, meek as a lamb, and 
bearing testimony that none could gainsay. — 1870. 

Since we opened school in the autumn, I have lost a 
number of relatives. A brother-in-law, two nephews, two 
nieces and some cousins have been removed from earth. 
The great business of life is to lay up durable riches to 
last us forever. This is my understanding of things, 
and if life is rightly occupied we shall use and enjoy 
the good temporal gifts bestowed for our comfort and 
convenience, and love and adore the Great Giver, ren- 
dering to Him the greatest of our possessions — even our 
whole heart. — 1870. 

There seems to be an increased interest among the 
younger members of our Society in becoming familiar 
with the ground of our testimonies and the principle 
from which they have sprung, as branches from a root. 
This has brought our members of different ages together 
in a common interest. — 1870. 

The more Friends mingle together socially, the more 
are we drawn together in love, and the more favored are 
our religious meetings. I often think how the early 
Friends went from house to house, encouraging, instruct- 
ing and strengthening each other. — 187 1. 



208 Life and Letters of 

CHAPTER IV. 
REFLECTIONS, ETC. 



A WORD OF EXHORTATION TO PARENTS. 

The query which has presented itself to the minds 
of concerned parents, not a few, is adverted to in to-day's 
Intelligencer. While reading the remarks in that paper 
I was reminded of the sentiments expressed by Nicholas 
Wain in a letter to his aunt Shoemaker. This letter 
was written in Loudon, while he was pursuing his 
studies in that gay metropolis. The gratitude which he 
felt for the care of this aunt, who had supplied the place 
of a mother to him, and the impression that her advice 
had made upon his mind, may be inferred from his 
Scripture quotation. 

"Train up a child in the way he should go, and 
when he is old he will not depart from it." Though he 
may depart while he is youug, yet when he is old it will 
be like bread cast upon the waters — found after many 
days. 

Although she had mourned over his wayward course, 
feeling that her affectionate counsel had been disre- 
garded and that the labor and attention which she had 
bestowed upon him were of no avail ; yet this letter 
proved that such had not been the case. 

Being now in a foreign land he remembered her 
with tender affection. The sweetness of her voice seemed 



Mary S. Lippincott. 209 

to fall upon his ear, and her counsel, which arose atop 
of all, was as the bread of life to his hungering spirit. 
Then it was he penned these words of encouragement 
for her to pursue the tenor of her way with a feeling of 
confidence that her labors would be blessed. Heretofore 
the instability of his conduct had been comparable to the 
boisterous ocean, which in its heavings and surgings 
threatens to ingulf everything cast upon its bosom ; 
but now a change had taken place, and her solicitude 
for his welfare met a response in the acknowledgment 
that her counsel had taken hold upon him, and might 
prove to be the means of his preservation. 

Parents, remember this one instance and take cour- 
age ; withholding neither hand nor voice from every 
effort in your power to direct and to save your precious 
offspring while they are treading the slippery paths of 
youth — paths which are overhung with temptations, and 
thickly beset with snares. 

Your words may seem to fall upon heedless ears, 
but the precept, the exhortation which they convey may 
find a place in the memory of your child, and may serve 
as a watchword to him when danger threatens and when 
the jaws of death seem to be opening to receive him. 
Then the wisdom of a father's counsel, the tenderness of 
a mother's care, and the earnest pleadings of both, may 
come to the rescue and turn him from his wayward 
course to a path of safety and of peace. 

In the aboundings of love for the dear .ones for 
whom you would sacrifice so much, put up your peti- 



210 Life and Letters of 

tions to your God and Father, that He will not let his 
eye pity, nor his hand spare these, till he has brought 
forth judgment unto victory. 

FOR " THE JOURNAL." 

The axe must be laid to the root of the corrupt tree 
if we would have no more poiso?wus fruits. Is not the 
tree of intemperance a corrupt tree, and is not the fruit 
it yields poison ? Do not those who eat thereof inherit 
the curse of death to innocency ? If we will look around 
shall we not see multitudes going a downward course 
into degradation and misery, throughout the length and 
breadth of our land ? Men, made but a little lower than 
the angels, coming to an untimely end ; their sun, once 
bright, setting under a thick cloud of darkness, their 
families pining in wretchedness and poverty ! 

What is to be done ? Am I my brother's keeper ? 
And who is my brother? He is our brother who has 
wandered in a forbidden path ; and, being tempted by 
taverns and drinking saloons so thickly crowded on his 
way, has been wounded, robbed, and lies weltering in his 
blood. Let us turn aside and dress his wounds, and 
then wield the axe to destroy the root, that the corrupt 
tree may wither and die. Take away the license ! Re- 
frain from the. wine and the beer cup, &c, and then 
have faith that by prayer and fasting — total abstinence 
— we may, with Divine aid, cast the demon spirit out 
of our midst. Rather than place a stumbling-block in 



Mary S. Lippincott. 211 

the way of a weak brother, let us drink no strong drink 
while the world standeth. 

If we can arrest the flood of intemperance, other 
evils, those which follow in its train, may be subdued. 
Smite the giant and his hosts will be scattered. — 1873. 

A FRAGMENT. 

The heavens and the earth speak forth the praise of 
their Creator. 

What harmony ! What regular progression — all 
moving in their appointed courses, without a jar ! What 
a lesson should they teach to the beholder ! Did we 
move in the line of Divine appointment, each filling the 
place he was designed to fill, the same harmony would 
be displayed in our movements through the world, and 
one would not disturb another in his onward course. 
As travelers on a life-long journey, prompted by both 
interest and inclination, we should move straight for- 
ward toward that habitation appointed for our home, 
after a well-passed life in this state of being. 

Then why is not man happy while here ? Why 
does he not find this life to be a blessing ? Ah ! by 
disobedience he has forfeited his inheritance, and caused 
the earth to bring forth, for him, briers and thorns. 
Yes, it is disobedience that makes man the author of his 
own and of his neighbor's woes. 

Is it not surprising that with all this knowledge, 
rebellion should still mark the pathway of the unre- 
generate man ? 



212 Life and Letters of 

PASSING TIME. 

"The lust of the flesh, and the lust of the eyes, 
and the pride of life." What a round of pleasure-seeking 
there is. What a running to and fro. What an expendi- 
ture of time and of money to gratify these desires, 
when lo, man is like a shadow that soon passes by. No 
earthly thing can he hold securely, even with his closest 
grasp ; and as for those glittering amusements, which 
fill up the passing hours, they are like the bubble that 
expands with beauty as it escapes, but if it be touched 
it bursts asunder, and is not. Many and complicated 
are the devices resorted to, to speed the moments on 
their course, as though time in this life were to continue 
forever — when lo ! it passes more swiftly than a weaver's 
shuttle, and is bearing us onward to a never-endiug 
eternity. 

Oh ye who frequent these places of amusement ! 
Have you no responsibilities ? Have you no work of 
greater moment than the gratification of your senses, or 
than mere entertainment to fill up the blanks (?) of 
time ? Are you placed here for no other purpose than 
to shine forth as the brilliant butterfly — flit about for a 
short season and then depart ? May you pause and con- 
sider. Wise would it be for those who thus spend their 
precious time to pause long enough to ask themselves 
the solemn question — what is life ? Why was I invested 
with this responsibility ? I have been gifted with physi- 
cal and intellectual powers, and with an innate thirst 



Mary S. Lippincoti 213 

for happiness. Am I sufficiently grateful for these gifts, 
and am I answering the end of my creation ? Do I 
devote a due portion of my time to holy, spiritual com- 
munion, and is that communion as full and as free as it 
should be, or is it interrupted by the vain thoughts 
which have found a lodging-place in my mind, and 
which have been nourished if not engendered, by my 
attendance at places of amusement ? 

Till these inquiries are searchingly made and hon- 
estly answered, man will not be likely to find his true 
position ; but he will remain, so far as his spiritual con- 
dition is concerned, but little above the brutes that graze 
the mountain-tops. His thoughts will tend towards this 
world, and when the time shall come for him to leave it, 
to what can he look forward ? 

His diversions have been his idols, and when re- 
moved from these, what will he have to depend upon ? 

HONOR AND DUTY. 

Men are disposed to honor those who accomplish 
deeds likely to find a place on the page of history. 

The warrior who has led his armies into the field of 
battle, and there has slain hosts of enemies (so-called) ; 
the statesmen whose influence regulates the laws of the 
land ; the orator whose eloquence wafts the sentiments 
of his hearers in unison, as does the gentle breeze the 
tree-tops of the forest ; the philanthropist, whose efforts 
are exerted to assist the widow, to protect the orphan, 
and to relieve the oppressed ; the emancipator who would 



214 Life and Letters of 

elevate the down-trodden sons of Africa from the degraded 
position in which the avarice and tyranny of their white 
brother has placed them : — these severally receive honor 
from the multitude according to the different stand-points 
from which their acts are viewed. 

But worthy of double honor, and indeed doubly 
honored in the sight of Jehovah, are those who have 
dedicated themselves to his service, be that what it may. 

These will be found trying to preserve men's lives, 
not to destroy them. They will also enter into sym- 
pathy with the oppressed, and with the suffering of all 
classes. Some may be called to administer to an op- 
pressed race the comforts of the Christian religion ; tell- 
ing «the poor captives that the Great Creator loves all 
those whom He has made in his own image, and de- 
signed for eternal life. They ma}' have to proclaim to 
the Ethiopian, or to the Red Mau of the forest the glad 
tidings of the Gospel of peace and salvation, directing 
him to a light within himself that will show him the 
path of virtue in this life, and lead him to a happy home 
in the next. That Christ is able to save all those who 
trust in Him, and that He offers to man the free gift of 
his saving Grace, without monej- and without price. 
Gospel streams flow abundantly as the waters of life, 
and all are invited to come, drink and be refreshed. 

The messengers of this Gospel may be disregarded 
and even despised \>y the multitude ; or they may cause 
the inquiry to be raised, " Whence hath this man this 
wisdom, and these might}- works ? " But however ne- 



Mary S. Uppiricott. 215 

glected, derided or contemned, these dedicated workers, 
if faithful to their calling, will receive a reward more 
lasting and of far greater value than all the honor that 
the world's votaries could give. 

THE OLD MAN'S SECRET FOR HAPPINESS. 

If we believe the oft-repeated assertion that the seat 
of happiness is in our own mind, we must admit that to 
every member of the human family this boon is freely 
offered. 

Then why are we not all happy ? Why do we 
behold the multitudes of plodding, care-worn inhabitants 
of this goodly earth of ours in a state of wretchedness, 
sighing for deliverance from that which makes life so 
oppressive as to be like a peddler's pack that bows the 
bearer down ? Is it not because their thoughts tend 
downward ; and they seek delight either in sensual 
gratifications or in worldly vanities ? 

"Too low they build who build beneath the skies." 
They seek to gratify the body or else to store the mind 
with that which is as different from wisdom as dross is 
unlike gold, and which leaves them as far from content- 
ment as the equator is from the pole. 

Finding that they have missed their aim they feel 
an inward pain, as if a canker were gnawing at the root 
of their peace. 

Where, then, does lie the secret of man's happiness ? 
What can satisfy him in all the vicissitudes of life ? 
What can enable him to receive with equanimity pros- 



216 Life and Letters of 

perity and adversity, and cause the stream of peace to 
flow in an uninterrupted current ? 

I reply in the language of an aged colored man 
who, when asked what made him so happy at all times, 
replied, " I have always tried to keep my mind easy." 

Try this, and the secret is discovered. The mind 
makes the man ; and if the affections are placed upon 
Him who created us, and bestowed upon us our mental 
faculties as well as our physical being, if we regard Him 
as Sovereign Lord of all, and ourselves as his servants, 
we shall be ready to move at his will, obey his com- 
mands, and ask counsel of Him to direct us in the Way 
Everlasting. 

When man comes to be thus directed, his corporal 
wants will be made subservient to the intellectual, the 
intellectual to the spiritual, and the care for the safety 
of his never-dying soul, paramount to every other con- 
sideration. 

Then he will know what it is to be raised from the 
grossness of sensual indulgences, to be extricated from 
the maze of worldly vanities, and to be established in a 
place of habitation secure from danger. All forbidden 
guests will be debarred an entrance into this peaceful 
abode, in the inner sanctuary of which sits Happiness, 
enthroned and undisturbed. 

Keep tlir mind easy by doing what is right ; then if 
we love our Creator, and live peaceably with all men, 
we may acknowledge that we have found the secret of 



Mary S. Lippincotf. 217 

happiness, and that we can subscribe to the sentiment 
expressed by the poet, 

" None are unhappy — all have cause to smile, 
But those who to themselves that cause deny." 

THE RELATION OF A MEMBER TO THE BODY. 

I feel that in the liberty which the Truth gives, I 
may offer my opinion, present my view on a subject 
which is both interesting and important to the Society 
of Friends. While considering the matter, since a recent 
interview that I had with some Friends, I have consulted 
neither book nor person, but have endeavored to keep 
in the quiet, that I might know the mind of Truth in 
relation to it. 

After thus deliberating, I feel free to say that I be- 
lieve the Society is constituted as are our bodies ; that no 
member is independent of the other members, or of the 
body, biit that where one member is diseased the whole 
body is affected. If the Church is composed of living 
members, and if Christ is the Head, then does his Spirit 
flow through the whole body, reaching every member 
thereof. If one member is unfaithful in the support of 
our testimonies, then must all the other members — the 
whole body — suffer for the unfaithfulness of this one ; 
and the suffering must continue until the offending 
member is restored to a healthy condition. 

If one member should claim the right to indulge in 
certain amusements, or to engage in certain practices, 
because he sees no impropriety in so doing (so long as 



218 Life and Letters of 

he keeps within the bounds of the moral law and leads 
a reputable life), although his course of conduct is in 
open violation of some of our cherished testimonies — 
then does he not separate himself from the body by 
being out of unity with those who are faithfully sup- 
porting the law and the testimony ? 

If each member is to decide for himself which of 
our testimonies are unimportant, because the}- seem so 
to him, then shall we not soon be landed in that chaotic 
state where organization is no longer a benefit, and 
scarcely a possibility. 

Yes, Friends, we must unitedly support our testi- 
monies, or else they will fall to the ground. Where one 
member errs, the bod)' errs with it, and all are turned 
out of the way. 

When the disaffected member shall become sensible 
of his error he will be brought into suffering, in which 
the body will participate. Oh, then what kindness, what 
tenderness, what humility, what love, what deliberation 
should there be in every movement of the body, that the 
mind of Truth may be known, and that that which is 
lame may be healed. A living member must suffer 
before he can properly deal with an offender. 

THE FRIENDS. 

Our worthy predecessors, being of one heart and of 
one mind, drew together in the fear and the dread of the 
Most High God, to worship Him in spirit and in truth. 
The light within taught them that God is a Spirit, and 



Mary S. Lippiqcott. 219 

that He required of thein spiritual worship. And in 
their assembling for worship they realized the promise, 
" Where two or three are gathered together in my 
name, there am I in the midst of them." These could 
acknowledge, from experience, that it is life eternal to 
" know thee the only true God, and Jesus Christ, whom 
thou hast sent." The Son was revealed in them, as the 
only way to the Father — the way into the kingdom of 
God, and of his Christ, as a Saviour to save them, a 
Redeemer to redeem them, a Mediator and Intercessor 
with the Father. Thus they came to sit together in 
heavenly places in Christ Jesus, where none could make 
them afraid. These formed the Society of Friends, a 
militant Church, with no Head but Christ. " One is 
your Master, even Christ, and all ye are brethren." 
" Ye are my friends if ye do whatsoever I command 
you." They beheld the beautiful order and wise economy 
of the visible church, where the head of the woman is 
the man, the head of the man is Christ, and the Head 
of Christ is God. They understood that the children of 
the Lord are children of the New Jerusalem, which is 
from above, and is the mother of us all. 

Their knowledge of these things was received by 
revelation — no man could teach them the things per- 
taining to the Spirit. They fed upon the Bread of Life, 
which Bread, says Christ, I am. They drank of that 
spiritual Rock that followed Israel, and that Rock was 
Christ, "Jesus Christ, the same yesterday, and to-day, 
and forever." 



220 Life and Letters of 

OUT OF MY PLACE. 

For the sake of others I consented to go on this 
trip to Montreal and Quebec. Though I say it not to 
my companions — for I desire not to mar their enjoyment 
— yet I still feel that home would be the proper place 
for me at this time. I have no life in a pleasure trip, 
feeling that I have no spare time to pass in this way. 
I feel that I am out of my usual course, out of the way 
of any useful business for myself or for others, and being 
poor mentally, as well as spiritually, I am not keeping 
any record of this trip. I hope that we may get home 
safely, and that in future I may profit by this experience, 
so that when a trip is to be taken for sight-seeing, I may 
be excused from joining the company. — 1853. 

MY DAILY DUTIES. 

Why is it that such a poor, unworthy creature as I 
am, should have to preside over such a family (ninety 
in number), to be in some measure responsible for them, 
and to set them an example worthy of their imitation ? 
It is an humble station, and one in which I feel that I 
have need to keep in a state of watchfulness unto prayer. 
I travel through the deeps, and tread the loneliness of 
my way, when there is none to look to, but the Lord 
alone. 

A CONTRAST. 

Oh ! how bright is the halo that surrounds the 
Christian's death-bed. How radiant are the beams of 



Mary S. Lippincott. 221 

his setting sun ! Long, long is it ere that brightness 
fades away, and is forgotten by those who were privi- 
leged to witness the closing scene. 

Is there no difference experienced at the close of 
life, between the man of the world and the Christian ? I 
mean the regenerated, self-denying Christian, who bears 
his cross and patiently awaits the immortal crown. His 
is a hope that fails not — a faith that neither heights nor 
depths can disturb — for he keeps the end in view, and 
when the time for his departure comes, he peacefully 
passes away to receive the reward of well done. 

Surely there is a difference between the end of such 
an one, and that of him who has lived a worldly life, 
and whose only treasures have been laid up on earth. 

Some Account of George Parker, deceased. Formerly 
a Slave. 

" Of a truth I perceive that God is no respecter of 
persons ; but in every nation he that feareth Him, and 
worketh righteousness, is accepted with Him." 

I deemed it proper to keep some account of the ex- 
pressions of resignation, and of the peaceful close of our 
dear young friend, George Parker, who died at our house, 
of pulmonary consumption, on the 28th of Third Month, 
1854, in the twenty-second year of his age. His parents, 

with their children, were slaves belonging to Fitz 

Hugh, of Virginia, till 185 1, when they were manu- 
mitted by a provision left in their master's will, made 
some years before. George, with an older brother and 



222 Life and Letters of 

a number of others, came to Philadelphia and procured 
homes in and adjacent to the city. His mother, of whom 
he was the youngest and darling son, and a sister re- 
mained in Alexandria, Virginia, with their former mis- 
tress. 

George entered into service with us in the latter 
part of Sixth Month, 1853. His brother being near by, 
they had the opportunity of being often together, which 
contributed much to their happiness, as they were closely 
attached to each other. George continued faithfully and 
honestly to discharge his duties, at all times, till sick- 
ness disqualified him for labor. He was kind, obliging, 
and remarkably polite and respectful to ever)' one with 
whom he had intercourse. Being of a quiet and amiable 
disposition, he lived in great harmony with his com- 
panions in service, frequently admonishing them if they 
neglected their business or indulged in rudeness, but 
evincing so much kindness and good feeling as to en- 
dear himself to these co-laborers, as well as to the rest 
of the family. As he could not read, he appeared to 
enjoy himself in quiet reflection ; and many evenings 
were passed mostly in that way. 

During the summer and autumn he enjoyed his 
usual health, though always delicate, for he was of a 
scrofulous habit. In the early winter he began to suffer 
more ; so that for about a week he was laid by. Soon 
after getting out again he took cold, and was attacked 
with a hard cough and pain in his chest. Sometimes 
the remedies employed, and fair weather, would partially 



Mary S. Lippiqcott. 223 

restore him, then again he would be more poorly. The 
severely cold weather in Second Month, however, proved 
to be too much for his enfeebled frame, and his cough 
increased and strength diminished quite rapidly. He 
felt that he was sinking, and yet his patience and cheer- 
fulness were remarkable. He stayed mostly by the fire 
in the day-time, and often during the latter part of the 
night, for his cough was troublesome when he was in 
bed, and the oppression greater than when sitting up. 

Our faithful physician, Dr. Stokes, attended him, 
but could do little for him except to alleviate the suffer- 
ing. George co-operated with his efforts, being always 
ready to comply with his wishes, and to follow the di- 
rections given. But notwithstanding all efforts to check 
the disease, it made rapid progress. Thinking that a 
change might prove beneficial, he went to pass a few 
days with a friend ; but finding himself fast declining, 
he was anxious to return home, and being favored to do 
so, he expressed much gratitude, seeming as if he could 
scarcely be thankful enough. He continued to go about 
the house and sometimes out of doors, until within five 
days of his death. Then he was suddenly prostrated, 
and became so ill that we had him moved into the 
nursery, where I could attend him during the day, and 
his brother be with him at night. 

He expressed a wish to see his mother and sister, 
and requested me to write to them, thinking that his 
sister could come on. 

When I would leave the room I could hear him 



224 Life and Letters of 

engaged in prayer, so that I perceived he was aware of 
his critical situation. Though his sufferings increased 
he seemed to be in a Heavenly frame of mind — all peace 
and serenity. 

Upon my return to him after a time of absence, he 
said, " I have had a suffering time. I am in much 
misery, and I have not been able to lie down." I told 
him I was sorry that I had to leave him, and that I had 
felt anxious about him. " I know it ; I got into a little 
doze, and dreamed that you had come," he replied, with 
emotion. I then said, Does thy mind feel comfortable ? 
" Yes, yes," was his reply. I told him I thought he had 
always been a good boy, for he had been dutiful and 
faithful while living with us. To this he assented with 
tears. 

He often addressed his brother in terms of affection, 
such as "John, you are such a comfort to me." 

One morning he said, " Oh, I have had a wearisome 
night, ' wearisome nights are appointed unto me.' " After 
the visit of the doctor, on that morning, he inquired, 
li What does the doctor say ? " I answered, " He says 
both of thy lungs are diseased, but he and we will do 
what we can to make thee comfortable." "All has been 
done," he exclaimed, and then, after a solemn pause, 
added, " I can't stay long; I am so weak I must go soon. 
There are a good many that I should like to see. Has 
some one written to my sister ? Then I want to see 
William and Lilly and other cousins living in Phila- 
delphia." He also wanted to have his love sent to his 



Mary S. Lippiqcott. 225 

former mistress, Fitz Hugh — for whom he expressed 
great regard — to his mother and other relatives and 
friends, adding emphatically, "yes — to everybody." His 
feelings seemed to be expended in love. Quite frequently 
he uttered ejaculations, such as " Mercy ! Mercy ! Oh, 
Merciful Father, O Lord, save my soul ! I can't live 
long. Oh, take me home ! " Then he would turn to his 
brother and say, " Oh, John, don't grieve for me. Don't 
grieve! I can't stay long with you." After one of 
these injunctions he said, " John, you will find my 
knife and some other things in my pocket." 

To me he said, " I am afraid you are doing too 
much. Can't some one take your place and let you go 
to the table at meal times ? " Being assured that it was 
agreeable to me to wait on him he looked around and 
smiled. 

When his cousins who had been sent for, came into 
the room, he looked at them calmly and said, "I am so 
glad to see you ; I want you both to stay all night. I 
can't live long. I may live till night, but I think I 
cannot till morning. I have often asked that I might 
be blessed in sickness." I told him I thought he had 
been blessed, and I trusted that he would find rest in 
the end. He replied, " Yes, yes, O Lord, save my soul ! " 
Next morning the pains of death appeared to be coming 
on. He several times looked affectionately at his brother, 
and said " Oh, John, don't hold me ! Don't hold me, 
but let me go." Once adding, " I want to go home, to 
the other world, where I came from. Oh, I want to go 



226 Life ar\d Letters of 

to rest ! " The expression of his countenance gave evi- 
dence of the sweet frame of mind that he was in, and of 
his resignation to the Divine will. 

He wanted to have a hymn sung, but thought it was 
almost too muili to ask. I told him his cousins might 
sing. After the hymn I told him that I had prayed for 
his easy passage out of time ; and that I trusted his 
change would be a happy one, for it had appeared to me 
that his soul was pure and spotless ; and that I hoped 
those of us who were spared a little longer might so live 
as to meet him in that happy state where there shall be 
no more parting, and where all tears shall be wiped 
from our eyes. He serenely gave a look of sanction to 
these words. 

The oppression became so great that the windows 
had to be raised, cold as the weather was, to enable him 
to get a little more breath. His expression was, " to get 
a little breath pains me through my whole body." 
Some of his friends coming in, he said to one of them, 
" Henry, won't you sing a hymn for me ; I am almost 
gone ? " In a short time the doctor came, and found 
him sinking. After a slight struggle he leaned over 
against his brother and calmly breathed his last, like 
one falling into a sweet sleep. 

Thus passed away his spirit from its earthly taber- 
nacle, and entered, as we reverently believe, into that 
rest prepared for the people of God. 

Many of his friends, and of our friends and neigh- 
bors, attended his funeral — about fifty colored persons 



Mary S. Lippincott. 227 

were there — when, after a solemn season, his remains 
were deposited in Friends' Burial-ground at Westfield. 

I think I shed tears enough for both his mother 
and sister, who were far away and could not be present ; 
they were tears that would not be kept back, and were 
accompanied with gratitude for his peaceful close. 

It seemed as if our family felt the prevalence of 
love ; no lonely feeling, no terror in the house while the 
corpse remained there. It must have been because of 
the quietness of his close. Surely there is a Power, all 
love, to keep us tranquil in times of trial. 

TO THE YOUTH. 



[Published in Friends' Intelligencer, vol. XI 11., pages 164-165.] 
" Be ye also ready, that though called early, ye may go in peace." 

Died, at Colerain, Ohio, Fourth Month 22nd, 1S56, 
of consumption, Anna B., daughter of Isaac Wells, aged 
twenty-three years. 

She was for several years very delicate, yet, having 
a great desire to be a teacher, applied herself closely to 
the cultivation of her mind, and (self-aided almost) 
made such progress as enabled her to instruct in the 
primary branches. After being engaged for some time 
to the satisfaction of her employers, she believed it 
right to spend a few months in a boarding-school, that 
she might become better qualified for that service. She 
entered in the autumn of 1854, and though often feeble, 
pursued her studies as diligently as her bodily strength 



228 Life and Letters of 

would allow. Being of an amiable disposition, she 
established herself in our affections, and we were wil- 
ling to hope that she would enjoy better health. In 
1855, she attended Philadelphia Yearly Meeting, at the 
close of which she walked in the rain to the ferry, and 
rode in the stage without drying her shoes. She con- 
tracted a heavy cold, and her health declined, though 
(for two weeks), she was able to attend school part of 
each day, but, at length she had to relinquish her in- 
tention and return home. A few weeks after, she wrote 
to me for a recommendation , intending to take a school ; 
so lively was her interest in the children of their neigh- 
borhood, whose opportunities were very limited, and her 
concern that they might have a religious, guarded edu- 
cation. At length she felt the disease, which had been 
slowly progressing, was rapidly gaining ground ; and 
she could labor no longer. In quiet resignation she 
yielded. She was not surprised nor alarmed, for it had 
seemed for years, that " death was in all her thoughts." 
She expressed much to those around her while on a bed 
of languishing, of the fulness of peace in prospect before 
her, in view of her release from this world of trial and 
change. 

A few days before her close a well disposed neighbor 
inquired if she would not wish to converse with a 
minister about spiritual things. She replied, " It mat- 
ters not — my mind is fixed, my peace is made. I fear 
not death. I only crave my departure may be easy. 



Mary S. Lippiqcott. 229 

Death has no terror, the grave no victory ; for my soul 
triumphs over death, hell, and the grave." 

She told her dear parents not to think hard of her 
because she went to boarding school (they having dis- 
couraged her on account of her feeble health.) " My 
peace," said she " seemed to be in it. I am glad I 
went." The evening before her close, she called her 
brother William to her and addressed him — " Dear 
brother, do not hold me ; let me go to the realms of 
bliss above, beyond all pain and suffering. Pray for 
me to be set free this very night if it be my Heavenly 
Father's will." To her father she said, " I feel my end 
approaching," and then appeared in fervent supplica- 
tion, " O Lord Jesus, receive my spirit ! yea, Lord, this 
moment, if such be thy will ; nevertheless, not my will, 
but thine, O God! be done." After this she suddenly 
revived and said, "I have something on my mind for 
some present — all sit down — my blessed Lord has pro- 
longed my life one night more." Then told her brothers 
her wish, and requested a private interview with her 
father, to whom she relieved her mind — asked her 
brother Levi to read several chapters in the New Testa- 
ment, and remained very cheerful and easy till day- 
break. Then asked for a basin of water, washed her 
hands and face, adjusted her hair and cap, and folded 
her hands, saying, " Now, Lord, I am ready and wait 
thy will." She continued in supplication, and passed 
so quietly away that none present could discern when 
the vital spark fled. Her brother, in his letter to me 



230 Life and Letters of 

says: " So easy, so tranquil, so triumphant a death 
none present ever before witnessed." 

M. S. L. 
Moorestown, N. J., Fifth Month 12th, 1856. 

[An account of the illness and death of her hus- 
band. Taken from a letter written to her valued friends 
Robert and Susanna Hatton.] 

Second Month 21st, 1858. — I write to inform you 
that 1113^ beloved husband has been removed from our 
midst, full of years, ready and patiently awaiting the 
appointed time for his change. For several months his 
suffering was very great, but his patience, cheerfulness 
and resignation were remarkable. His faithful attend- 
ance of our religious meetings, and his solid, weighty 
deportment when there gathered with Friends (even 
after he was unable to sit up long at a time, being 
mostly in bed save while at meeting), is also worthy of 
remark. Six weeks before his death, when he was, 
with full unity, replaced by the meeting in the station 
of Elder, he told me he felt no desire that it should be 
so, as his work was done ; adding that he felt sweet and 
continued peace for his faithfulness, and the assurance 
that he had, through life, endeavored to serve his Divine 
Master. Though he felt that he had done very little 
good in the world, yet he had, according to his con- 
victions of right, endeavored to perform his duties, and 
was now being rewarded with a feeling of continual 
peace. 



Mary S. Lippincott. 231 

He was sustained through great bodily suffering, 
and preserved in clearness of mental faculties, till a few 
hours previous to his close — the change taking place 
gradually. When the heart refused to receive the re- 
turning current, he had a spasm. After this had sub- 
sided he breathed quietly for about five minutes, and 
then calmly passed awa} r . 

After death the countenance retained its serene and 
pleasant expression, looking as though in a sweet sleep. 

For about thirty-six hours before his close, his 
throat was so sore, and the oppression was so great, 
that he could not lie down. 

He took entirety to his bed on Sixth-day, and died 
the following Third-day, ninth inst., at half-past five in 
the afternoon. He was so emaciated that he desired 
not to keep his bed, so long as his strength would admit 
of his reclining in an easy chair. 

Very many of our friends and relatives called to 
see him, and to aid in waiting on him, during the last 
few days. To these he spoke occasionally, though 
with great difficulty, telling them of his comfort and 
his confidence, saying that he had placed himself in 
the care of the Great Supreme. When looking around 
upon some of his nieces and nephews, he said to them, 
" These feelings 3 7 ou must all know." 

His serene countenance lighted up with a smile 
as he looked at us in his agony, to assure us of his 
happiness. Oh, may I ever retain and keep fresh the 
remembrance of this look ! 



232 Life and Letters of 

During the last few weeks, when he plainly saw 
that the end was drawing near, he had everything 
made ready, so far as practicable, that he might leave 
all as easy for us as was possible for it to be. 

As time passed on he desired more and more to 
be in the quiet, and though pleased to see his friends, 
he said but little. He enjoyed having his family with 
him, in silence, and wished especially that / should be 
near him. Much of the time he was engaged in prayer, 
and not for himself alone but for others also. The 
young people were especially the objects of his solici- 
tude, that they might love the Truth and not care so 
much for dress and fashion. The Society of Friends 
was near his heart, its testimonies and its principles, 
its order and its sound doctrines. I trust that his 
precepts, strengthened as they were by his example, 
will not be lost. 

On the da} T of the funeral the weather was clear 
and cold, and the company very large. There was a 
solemn hush over all. It was the first coffin and the 
first grave that ever looked to me like a comfortable 
home for the earthly tabernacle. Powerful testimonies 
were borne by several Friends — J. H., and J. T., among 
others, speaking of his uprightness as a pillar in the 
Church, as a neighbor beloved, as a devoted friend to 
the poor, as well as a tender, loving husband and father. 

His was, indeed, a long and useful life. He gave 
away hundreds of dollars to the poor ; and even when 
in straits himself he divided his means with others. 



Mary S. Lippincott. 233 

There was no bitterness in his heart against any ; as he 
said, " To his own Master every man must stand or 
fall," adding, "those who are in the Truth shall stand; 
but those who are fighting against it, must fall." 

We shall feel our stripping very much indeed, for 
we have lost a dear friend and father ; but we have a 
Father in Heaven in whom we trust, and whose good- 
ness and mercy still endure. The continued assurance 
that the dear departed is in the full fruition of bliss, 
rejoices my soul. 

We enjoyed our life together, checkered though it 
was, for we were joined in that union that death cannot 
dissolve ; and I look toward meeting him where parting 
shall be no more. 

May the blessing of preservation attend us all 
through life, is the desire of your friend, 

M. S. L. 

[The following extracts from two letters to her 
grandson, give the only account that we have from her 
pen, of the last days of her daughter Jane.] 

Second Month 13th, 1885. — She is still living, but 
very low. She has been a great sufferer, and still 
suffers much at times, and is very, very weak. Men- 
tally she is bright, entirely resigned, and desirous to 
be released at the right time. Indeed, for the past five 
years, since she has been sick, and often a great sufferer, 
she has known what the result would be. Several 
weeks ago, knowing that she was failing, she had all 

16 



234 Life and Letters of 

her affairs arranged, and has since given directions for 
funeral, interment, &c. She has requested that all be 
plain and quiet. Thy aunt Phebe is with us, and 
expects to remain until after the change. To her, Jane 
made known her wishes as to the arrangements after 
death, and then as if turning her mind from earthly 
things, she said to the doctor, " Everything is now 
ready, and I can die in peace." Every day she looks 
with hope toward the close, though she desires to be 
patient, as has been the case during her long illness, 
which she has accepted so cheerfully. She has, as is 
not unusual with consumptives when near their close, 
a dread of strangling or choking with phlegm, but the 
doctor soothes her by telling her that he thinks she 
will pass off easily, as was the case with thy father. 

Many of her friends and relatives have visited her, 
and much kindness has been manifested by bringing or 
sending delicacies to tempt her appetite, and beautiful 
flowers for her to look upon. For the past few weeks 
she has not been able to see much company, and now 
she can see scarcely any, without increasing her suffer- 
ing. 

We are so glad that thee and Isaac came last winter, 
when she was able to enjoy your society. We knew 
then that she could not live a great while ; and now, 
though a close trial to part with her, yet we are thank- 
ful to have had her spared so long; and still more so, 
to see her aware of her situation, and yet resigned and 



Mary S. Lippincott. 235 

happy. We feel that we cannot ask to have her live, if 
she must continue to suffer. 

She would have been glad to see Lizzie and Richard, 
but now she can only send love, with desires for your 
welfare, in which we join. 

Second Month 22nd, 1885. — I write to thee as soon 
as I feel that I can. We should have been comforted 
to have you with us, but knowing that you could not 
come, we did not expect you. That our feelings were 
together we well knew ; and this helped to compensate 
for your absence in person. 

Jane's sufferings for most of the time after the first 
change — about forty-eight hours before the final one — 
were very great, but with wonderful patience she bore 
all. Her resignation and peace continued, and she made 
a touching appeal that our prayers with hers might 
ascend for her release, if to her Heavenly Father it 
should seem right to grant this request. 

From the frequent accumulation in her throat, and 
her inability to raise much, on account of her weakness, 
she dreaded strangulation. 

The last night was, indeed, severe, and it was hard 
for us to witness her suffering, which we were unable to 
relieve, and we could only try to comfort her. Several 
times she spoke of the lightness of her afflictions when 
compared with those of the blessed Jesus, both in the 
Garden and on Calvary. 

About day-break she experienced a little alleviation 
of her suffering, but the change that was coming came 



230 Life and Letters of 

fast : she passed quietly away, sensible and clear in 
mind, till her hand dropped from Margaret's. 

Everything had been said, done, devised and made 
ready, as clearly and calmly as if about to start on an 
earthly journey. For several years she had known what 
was coming, and felt resigned to the event, though she 
said if she could be well she would like to stay with us, 
for she had such a happy life, and so loved her family 
and her friends. 

She was the recipient of much kindness and at- 
tention from our friends, and everything that it was 
thought might aid or comfort her, physically, was fur- 
nished. Her love and gratitude seemed abounding ; and 
after her other messages had been left she said, "Mother, 
give my love to everybody." 

Just at the last, dropsy set in, which caused a slight 
swelling of the face and made the corpse appear very 
life-like. 

Everything in connection with her burial was done 
in accordance with the directions she had given. The 
funeral was large, both here and at Moorestown Meeting 
House. Phebe and myself did not go out, as we both 
were somewhat ailing. 

The body was laid in the Friend's ground at Moores- 
town, where those of thy grandfather, thy father, our 
other children, and many near and dear ones repose. 
Their remains lie there, but we trust the immortal souls 
are at rest — so man}- gave full assurance thereof, and 
were favored to die in peace. Should the same be our 



Mary S. Lippincott. 237 

portion, we shall reunite. The future is a promise of 
bliss, and this at the end crowns all. 

You may judge of our trial and bereavement; but 
we resigned the dear one, and did not desire to have 
her suffering prolonged. She was so happy, having 
neither doubts nor fears to disturb her, that we can only 
feel as if our loss is her eternal gain. 

M. S. L. 



238 Life and Letters of 



CHAPTER V. 



VERSES. 



AN ASPIRATION. 

yOOR and distressed, I inward turn, 
^~-* To muse upon my woe ; 
I feel depressed and deeply tried, 
Oh ! whither shall I go ? 

To Thee, Great God ! my spirit turns, 

My soul in secret prays, 
That Thou may keep me safe from harm, 

And shield me all my days. 

I know I've grieved thy own dear Son, 

By turning back again, 
From journeying in the narrow way, — 

Then why should I complain? 

How raise my voice to Thee, and crave 

Thy mercy and thy love ; 
When I so often turn aside, 

And disobedient prove ? 

Yet, I will raise my feeble voice, 

And for forgiveness pray, 
That I may make thy will my choice, 

And own my devious way. 



Mary S. Lippiqcott. 239 

Be pleased, Almighty God ! to hear 

A trembling sinner's cry ; 
Whose heart, once more, would turn to Thee, 

And on thy grace rely, 

For daily strength to do thy will, 

And ne'er from Thee depart ; 
Whose light can make the pathway plain, 

Whose love can change the heart. 

Admit me into thine abode, 

To be a servant there ; 
To go or come at thy command, 

And make my life a prayer. 



1822. 



THE STRUGGLE. 

I I H, how can I obedient rise 

To voice my Maker's praise ; 
How shall I ever bear the cross 
To tune aloud my lays ? 

In solitude I'd rather dwell, 

In dark oblivion's vale, 
To view the face of man no more, 

Nor tell my piteous tale, — 

Rather than face the multitudes, 
And preach the word of life : — 

My human nature weakness pleads, 
And hence the constant strife. 



240 Life ar\d Letters of 

One spirit says, " Give up, my child. 
And thou the way shalt see :" 

The other, — "No, thou canst not preach, 
So come and follow me." 

Sometimes, the tirst — which plainly speaks— 

I'm ready to obey ; 
Then comes the Reasoner, weakness pleads, 

And so I shrink away. 

I'm tossed and whirled from side to side 

And ofttimes fear a fall ; 
But still I find a Saviour near, 

Whose voice renews the call. 

When shall 1 know a heart resigned 

To yield my stubborn will ; 
To cast me down at Jesus' feet, 

His purpose to fulfill. 



OVERCOMING I /■- MP TA 77 ON. 

rJ (J W let me count his mercies o'er, 
* And praise my Maker's name ; 
Rely on Him, forevermore, 

Whose power is still the same. 

'Tis much I try my thoughts to guide, 
My passions fierce to curb ; 

That I in meekness may abide, 
Where nought can peace disturb. 



Mary S. Lippiqcott. 241 

Yet still the tempter's baits are set 

To lead my mind astray, 
To tangle me within his net, 

And drag me far away. 

But oh ! may He who reigns above, 

Still listen to my cry ; 
And, with a Father's tender love, 

Abounding grace supply. 

In Him my hope is centered all, 

To Him alone I look, 
To have transgressions washed away, — 

Sins blotted from his book. 

Oh ! will He hear my piteous cry ? 

To me will He attend ? 
Will He extend his arm of love, 

And guide me to the end ? 

Poor and unworthy as I am, 

He does not me forget ; 
Tho' of his love I feel bereft 

He does not leave me yet. 

My wanderings in a desert are, 

Where drink is hard to find ; — 
For Marah's waters taste of gall, 

With wormwood seem combined. 

Yet still I hope to journey on, 

And reach that happy land 
Which all the wandering pilgrims found, 
Who heeded Ms command. 
Twelfth Month 29th, 1823. 



242 Life and Letters of 



REFLECTIONS. 

On seeing the morning clouds disperse. 

SAW the clouds disperse in air, 
The sun break forth and shine ; 
And thought the morn so fresh and fair, 
That pleasure would be mine : 

But ah ! for me, 'tis vanity 
To hope for scenes so bright ; 

My joys have fled, in haste they sped, 
And left my saddened soul in gloom of wintry night. 

Days of my childhood, ye were sweet ! 

My brother, thou wast dear ! 
How oft we joyful used to meet, 
Nor dream of trouble near. 

We little knew, the word adieu 
Should pass our lips so soon, — 

In early day, thou fled away, 
Like as the morning dew, gone long before the noon. 

Thy transient tarriance, here below, 

Oft fills my heart with grief; 
But while I weep, I'm brought to know- 
Wherein to seek relief. 

There is a God whose chastening rod 
His children all must feel ; 

That they may find true peace of mind, 
Which to devoted ones He will, in time, reveal. 

Then, since 'tis thus, dry up, ye tears ! 
Ye sighs, be heard no more ! 



Mary S. Lippincott. 243 

Begone, afflicting, troubling fears ! 
Gone with the days of yore: — 

I'll strive to raise my heart in praise 
To God, who gave us birth ; 

This troubled mind, then, then shall find — 
The fountain of true peace flows pure from Heaven not earth. 
First Month 16th, 1825. 



NA TURE. 



V( N D what is Nature? Can the mind of man 

With all its boasted powers, the word explain ? 
Dare he presume its mysteries to scan, 

That so no shadow of a doubt remain 

How aught was formed, and nothing formed in vain? 

And what is Nature ? Is yon blue expanse, 
Spread like a canopy our heads above, 

Besprinkled o'er with sparkling gems to enhance 
Jehovah's goodness, and Jehovah's love, — 
The source of life, the spring which all doth move ? 

And what is Nature ? Do the trees that wave 
Their branches in the breeze that gently blows, 

Know more than we the Almighty Power that gave 
Them place on earth to flourish and repose : — 
Are not all these effects, his bounty to disclose? 

Ah, yes ! And man their beauties may survey, 
Admire the graces in each form combined, 

And learn the genuine cause of this display — 
Though Nature called — is God, forever kind 
To impart instruction to the inquiring mind. 



244 Life and Letters of 



TR UTH. 

\aMI AT is that orb of radiant light 

Whose rays dispel the gloom of night, 

And gild perpetual day ; — 
Is it the sun our eyes behold, 
Each day his bright' ning beams unfold, 
Round which this earth so oft has rolled, 

And still rolls on her way ? 

Ah, no ! More glorious 'tis, by far, 
Than is that brightly beaming star 

Which shines upon our sphere. 
'Tis Truth dispenses light and heat, 
And clothes, with panoply complete, 
Our minds, that thus enjoyment sweet, 

The passing hours may cheer. 

Truth, from the fount of Heavenly joy, 
Its crystal streams, without alloy, 

Shall in our bosoms pour — 
As we are zealous to prepare, 
Now, in our youth, a channel there, 
'Twill free from harm and every snare, 

And fit for Canaan's shore. 

Rensselaerville, X. Y. 



Mary S. Lippiqcott 245 



HYMN. 
J Thee, O God, I raise mine eyes ! 
Be pleased to hear my feeble cries ; 
Look down with pity from above ; 
And fill my heart with Heavenly love ! 

'Tis much I need a Saviour's smile 
To keep me free from Satan's wile, 
Preserve my heart from wilful wrong, 
And safely, gently, lead along. 

Oh leave me not, my Guide, my love ! 
But try me oft, my heart to prove, 
And bring me nearer home to Thee 
Where I shall be forever free. 

Teach me to do thy holy will, 
All thy Divine commands fulfill,— 
To spread thy glorious truths abroad, 
And turn the wanderer's heart to God. 

I have not kept thy Word alway, 
But turned aside from day to day ; 
Have wandered from the path of Truth, 
And been a proud, rebellious youth. 

But now to Thee, O Lord ! I turn, 
And while my lamp holds out to burn, 
I'll seek forgiveness for the past, 
And strength to serve Thee to the last. 

Be Thou my hope, my strength, my shield, 
Then, with thy aid, my heart I'll yield ; 
I'll journey on my Heavenly way, 
And bear thy yoke from day to day. 



246 Life and Letters of 



HYMN. 

I H O U only knowest, God of love, 

How vain, how foolish, I should prove, 
If left to choose my way ; 
Be, therefore, pleased to keep me low ; 
Keep me from wandering to and fro, 
When much I strive and fain would go 

Far, far from Thee astray. 

Be pleased to guide me, all my days, 
And teach my voice to lisp thy praise, 

My heart thy will to do : — 
No more I ask, no more I crave, 
Than this to know, to feel I have, 
Thy presence near, thy arm to save 

Thy love my soul to woo. 



TO A. J. r. 

[7 E W are our pleasures here below, 

And quickly they must pall ; 
The world appears a beauteous show, 
But those who view shall surely know 
Its dazzling splendor is but woe, 
And darkness brings on all. 

In early life my fancv viewed 

A scene of perfect bliss. 

Within this dreary solitude, 

This wilderness so wild and rude, 

I thought no grief would e'er intrude, 

To blast my happiness. 



Mary S. Lippiqcott. 247 

But, ah, how soon the vision fled ; 

I disappointment found ; 

My cheerful moments from me sped, 

And with them joys my heart had read, 

And hopes that had profusely spread 

My youthful bower around. 

A gloomy aspect then 

All Nature seemed to wear ; 
I looked toward Heaven, and sighed 

For early entrance there : 
Then, humbled and resigned, 

I felt a Father's love ; 
A holy quiet clothed my mind, 

Which came from God above. 

And though we taste of deep distress, 

May we not dare complain ; 

For He who wounds intends to bless, 

If we our griefs sustain. 

And now, farewell ! Time hastes away ; 

Its sands will soon be run ; 

Then may our Saviour sweetly say 

Rest — for thy work is done." 



A PRAYER. 
IHOU, Great, Supreme, Propitious, Merciful, 
Whose smile is ecstasy, whose frown is grief! 
Why was my soul so bowed ? Spirits depressed ? 
Have my vain, wand* ring thoughts unbidden trode 
Imagination's round ; and with a zest, 
Unseemly in thy sight, indulged in themes 



248 Life arid Letters of 

Unripe for contemplation, and forbid 

Yet to be nurtured in affection's soil, 

While doubt and darkness veil the future scenes? 

If so, O Lord, forgive thy erring child ! 

Restrain my ardent feelings, and confine 

My thoughts within the limits of thy love ! 

Oh, teach my heart, in Thee alone to trust ; 

To fix its purposes and rest its hopes ! 

For all on earth is restless as the waves 

That rise and fall by agitating winds, 

And bury in the deep man's fondest hopes, 

Ingulf his treasures, and frustrate his plans. 



LINES ADDRESSED TO R. S. 

i VI Y heart with sympathy afresh doth glow, 

And gladly would the healing balm bestow 
If thou art free to tell me thy distress, 
Perhaps thy cup of sorrow will be less : 
Thy throbbing breast may feel a calm relief, 
By thus imparting to a friend thy grief. 
And oh, dear sister ! there is One on High, 
Whose ear is open to each secret sigh — 
He knows thy state, remembers thee in love, 
And He thy never- failing Friend will prove. 
Be not dismayed, for there is nought to fear ; 
His guardian-angel presence still is near, 
For his pavilion is a refuge sure, 
And in it all his children dwell secure. 
Though waters rise, and howling tempests blow 
Around thy dwelling, threat' ning to o'erthrow ; 



Mary S. Lippiqcott. 249 

His Holy Hand is underneath to save 
Thy soul from sinking in the watery grave. 
Then courage take, and to the port of peace 
Press on with faith, and strength will yet increase ; 
Thou' It reach the goal of rest beyond the skies, 
Where holy anthems to the throne arise ; 
The face of God, there ever to behold, 
And rest with angels in thy Shepherd's fold. 



PARTING LINES. 

Addressed to a Companion at Rensselaerville. 

I H E approaching hour is near, 

When thou and I must part, perhaps forever. 
Sad, solemn thought ! yet should it be e'en so, 
That observation ne'er again shall bring 
Thy form to view ; still there exists 
A precious cement in the hidden life, 
Which even gray old Time cannot dissolve, 
Though his destructive scythe may sweep away 
All sublunary grandeur ; level down 
The pomp of monarchs and the pride of men ; 
Our love shall change not, if we keep in view 
The goal of peace beyond this fleeting scene, 
And fix our hopes on High. For from the fount 
There flows a gentle stream of love Divine, 
Binding together, as with silver cords, 
The spirits of the righteous, even here, 
Before dismantled of these robes of clay. 
I leave, but not forget thee. Thou shalt still — 



250 Life and Letters of 

At seasons when all Nature's hushed around, 
And silence reigns — fit time for contemplation — 
Have place in memory of thy distant friend. 
Fond memory shall, well pleased, recall the hours 
Which we, in converse sweet, together passed, 
Beneath the roof of our parental friend 
Whose love extended to his little flock, 
And from his lips sweet counsel ofttimes flowed, 
Which raised our spirits when sore prest with care. 

sister ! may we nevermore forget 

Favors which boundless Goodness has bestowed, 
When, in his love, He made our cups run o'er, 
And gave us joy for sorrow, bliss for woe ! 
Farewell, dear friend ! I go : from loved ones go ; 
The many who my fond affections share. 

1 go to kindred, friends of early days, 

A mother — sweetest friend this earth affords — 
From whose sweet lips dropt ofttimes out 
The comprehensive words — "Be good, for that is all 
All, my dear children that I ask of you." * * * 
May choicest blessings rest upon thy head, 
Pure from the unmeasured Source of life and love, 
Forever be thy heart the Lord's to do his will : 
So, when a few more years have rolled around, 
And Nature's powers have waned, their vigor spent, 
Then may thy sun go down without a cloud, 
And thy enfranchised soul, from earth released, 
Soar far away into the realms of light. 
There we may meet, if hand in hand we go, 
(Though distant far our fragile frames may be 
One from the other) as hopeful pilgrims to 
A far-off land, to join our Master there. 



Mary S. Lippincott. 251 

A THOUGHT. 

\AJHY have I left all serious thought, 

To seek those pleasures dearly bought ; 
And which, ere this, I have been taught 
Are nought but vanity ? 

Why have I not my will resigned, 
And left all foolish things behind ; 
Seeking to God for strength of mind, 
In true sincerity? 

'Tis in that state we're brought to know 
The vanity of things below, 
So as with joy to let them go, 
For pure simplicity. 



AN ASPIRATION. 

I O Thee, my God, this morn I raise 

My voice, thy glorious name to praise, 
And tune anew my lyre ; 
Be pleased, once more, to condescend, 
And to my feeble cry attend — 
Be Thou my Father, Guide and Friend, 
My inmost soul inspire. 

This heart has oft been known to stray ; 
Has deviated from thy way, 

More times than I can tell ; 
Yet still, with faith, I look on Thee, 
Poor and unworthy though I be, 
Desiring Thou wilt chasten me, 

Till fit with Thee to dwell. 



252 Life and Letters of 

BLESS US, FATHER, BLESS! 

Written, probably, on the day of her Marriage. 

I H E E we adore ! Thy presence now we seek, 
To strengthen and sustain, for we are weak ; 
Though bound by love to join in wedlock's bands, 
Yet to confirm the 'pledge, strengthen our hands. 
Oh, raise our hearts by faith to trust in Thee, 
That kind and faithful we may ever be. 
Should joys attend us. may our prayers ascend, 
As incense offered to the Lord, our Friend ; 
Or, if affliction be our portion here, 
Still grant us grace, thy goodness to revere : 
No less our Friend when sorrows bow us down, 
Than when the stream of joy flows smoothly on. 
Be thou our light,, to guide us on our way 
From earth's bewildering shades to endless day. 



TO MY HUSBAND. 

I HOUGH trials are our portion while passing through this 

scene, 
They sometimes arc permitted, our love from earth to wean. 
Thou feelest desolation pervade thv troubled breast, 
While harrowing cares and hopes destroyed disturb thy wonted 

rest. 
Thou travelest in secret, along thy lonely way. 
Desiring still to keep thine eye upon the star of day ; 
And oh, dear one, be not dismayed, nor yield thou to despair, 
But know in all thy trials sore my soul doth freely share. 
I've drunk of sorrow's bitter cup, have felt some poignant 

grief, 



Mary S. Lippincott. 253 

Yet on my Saviour's bosom I have always found relief; 
And there, my dear companion, let thy fond hopes be stayed, 
Then, of the storms and tempests thou need not be afraid. 
Although thou dost not feel it, thy God is with thee still ; 
Preparing thee more fully to do his holy will ; 
He's drawing thy affections, from earth's bewitching ties, 
And staining all their beauty in thy now anointed eyes ; 
That thou mayst view the glory, reserved in Heaven above, 
And, numbered with God's children, be sealed with holy love. 
Though adverse winds may raise the waves that threaten to 

o'erwhelm, 
Keep faith and hope in constant view, and thou the tide shalt 

stem. 
A language of encouragement I feel to thee is due, 
As is thy day, thy strength shall be, thy journey to pursue. 
Within the mighty waters his chamber beams are laid, 
So, though thy bark be tossed thereon, thou need not be 

afraid ; / 

For He'll arise from slumbering, and bid the tempest cease, 
Then steer thy course for Canaan's shore, the only land of 

peace. 
He'll give, in place of sorrow, those joys that perish not; 
And thus thy former trials will almost be forgot. 
Whom the Lord loves He chastens, now as in former days, 
For which, in times of favor, we oft are filled with praise. 
I do believe, my cherished one, the Lord is choosing thee, 
A vessel stamped with holiness, within his house to be. 
Oh, my beloved companion ! may we again renew 
Our covenants, our confidence, and then our way pursue ; 
The way to Zion's holy mount, to offer incense there, 
And to pass our fleeting hours and days in deep and fervent 

prayer ; 



254 Life and Letters of 



With our tent spread in the valley, where Heavenly dews de- 
scend, 
With Jesus for our constant, and our never-failing friend ; 
For under his pavilion, no foes can e'er prevail, 
Although they may encamp around, and threaten to assail. 
Then though the world against us, with hostile arms arise, 
It shall not e'en disturb our peace, for God can hear our cries. 
Then may the Lord, in mercy, be with us, day by day, 
And give us strength and courage to drive all our doubts 

away. 
Farewell, by pen and paper ! Oh, Lord ' our souls do keep ; 
Until at last we slumber, in unawakening sleep ; 
Then bear us to a mansion safe, of never-ending rest, 
And bid us join triumphant, the number of the blest. 

Chestervii.le, X. |., Third Month ist, [830. 



" THE star:' 

A Periodical, edited b) four boys; brothers. 

IX STAR announced the Saviour's birth, 

When He appeared in flesh ; 
Glad tidings rang throughput the earth, 
And joy sprang up afresh. 

The wise men journeyed on their way, 

And lightly trod the ground ; 
Until the star was seen to stay 

O'er where the child was found. 

Though many years have passed us by, 

Since that eventful day ; 
Another, shining brilliantly, 

Again may light our way, 



Mary S. Lippiricott. 255 

And lead to where the children are 

Who, innocent and gay, 
Convey instruction, through the " The Star," 

To light the youthful way. 



Fifth Month 3rd, 1848. 



TO GEORGE HA ETON. 

On the Death of his Wife. 

ImOOD is the Lord, and good his gifts to man — 

Tho', in his wisdom, He should take away 
The earthly prop, leaning on which he ran 
The race before him, as she smoothed the way ; 
But this to try his faith, to test his love, 
That his firm hold on Heaven, He thus may prove. 
Shall man distrilst, and cast away his shield, 
As though with oil he had not been anointed ; 
While called to labor in the harvest field, 
And seeing plain the work to him appointed ? 
Ah, no ! dear brother ! Help Divine is near, 
And in the flaming bush God does appear. 
His voice thou knowest, when in language sweet, 
He calls thee forth to preach his glorious word, 
On holy ground thou stands ; from off thy feet 
Go put thy shoes; again gird on "the sword" — 
That powerful weapon which lops sin away, 
And gains the passport to eternal day. 
Sinners are made to tremble when they hear 
The solemn truths which instruments declare : 
How glorious do the feet of these appear 
To those who would for peace and rest prepare. 



256 Life and Letters of 

Then gird on strength ; let gladness clear thy brow- 
As valiant once, so valiant be thou now. 
And in thy turn, when all thy work is done, 
When from thy labor thou art called to rest, 
No sorrow, sighing, grief shall then be known, 
But joy and gladness — blest, forever blest, 
Thy soul immortal —freed from bonds of clay- 
Shall wing its flight to everlasting day. 
First Month jgth, 1850. 



STANZAS. 

Found, . >i 1 .1 papei used as a marker, in the Bible of M. S. L. 

\Jli ask, Who shall ascend on High. 

To scan the world of spirits ? 
To see the glory — majesty — 
Each ransomed soul inherits? 

No eye untouched with healing salve — 

By ( rod's ou n finger, e'er 
Can see the brilliant crowns they have 

Who dwell forever there. 

The vulture's eye beholdeth not, 

The lion's whelp ne'er treads 
The path — that consecrated spot — 
In which his spirit leads. 

The eye of Faith discerns the way 

Emmanuel's sons have trod ; 
Which, bright' ning to the perfect day, 
Ends in the House of God. 
Ninth Month 21st, 1857. 



Mary S. Lippincott. 257 



LIFE. 

pJOW short is life! Alas, how soon 
The morning verges into noon, 
The noon to sombre night ; 
But sweet the noon, and bright the day, 
To those who walk in wisdom's way 
Loved children of the Light. 

Though morn and noon have passed you by, 
And evening's shades are drawing nigh, 

The night will bring you rest : 
For not in vain, your lives were given ; 
To aid the needy you have striven, 

And such are ever blest. 

Through straits and trials we must go 
Along our pathway here below ; 

For. 'tis the lot of all ; 
Sinner and saint temptations have, 
But God is ever near to save 

Those who upon Him call. 

A beacon light is placed within, 

To show the right, to warn from sin — 

And he that will obey, 
Can journey on with faith preserved 
In God, whom he has loved and served — 

To lead him on his way. 



258 Life and Letters of 



ON THE DEATH OF MY HUSBAND. 

I IH, what a blank ! A sad and aching void ! 

Yet do I feel a sweetness, everywhere, 
In contemplation of the past, the happy years 
We passed together : he a partner kind, 
My staff, my armor-bearer : how he loved 
The truths held dear by me ; how paved my way 
For the fulfilment of some work required. 

Death came, not unexpected. Long he looked, 
And waited long in quietude and patience, 
Tin that hour when the final call should come, 
The voice be heard— "Come to the marriage feast." 
With joy he hailed the messenger ; with calm 
And smiling face he looked upon us all 
Even in agony, was much conveyed 

(Though power to speak had failed him ) of the strength, 
Support and fortitude with which he bore 
The wearing out of that which mortal was ; 
His trust was in Jehovah. To his care 
fie looked, in Him reposed all faith and hope : 
On Him relied to bear him safely through 
The gates of death, and lift his soul to life. 
Fifth Monti) 16th. 1858. 



MY DEPARTED HUSBAND. 

^Vll ! know' st thou, dear departed, how I fare; 

Alone, retired, with none my griefs to share? 
For, by my side, I thee no more behold, 
But sad and lone, my weary arms I fold. 



Mary S. Uppiqcott. 259 

No mortal knows, or can, the widow's state; 
Left, like a dove, to mourn her missing mate — 
Did not Kind Providence design our good, 
In being left to dwell in solitude? 
Did I not view it so, could I sustain 
The load of grief assigned, and not complain ? 
But, as it is, my soul contritely gives 
To God the glory, and his love receives. 

As late I walked beside thy narrow grave, 

And felt that all was gone which made earth dear ; 

To God, alone, I looked, my soul to save, 

And strengthen me, my weight of grief to bear. 

Third Month 27th, 1859. 



APPENDIX 



Extracts frorri the " Scrap Book " of 
Mary S. Hallowell. 

A Letter from John Mott. 

Dearly Beloved Children of Westtown Family : — After attending 
meeting to-day at this place, in which we were once more favored 
with the ownings of Israel's Shepherd, I felt a salutation of love to 
you, as dear children of the family of our Heavenly Father, whom I 
love in the Truth. The encouraging language which arises in my 
mind to address you with is, "The righteous also shall hold on his 
way, and he that hath clean hands shall grow stronger and stronger." 
Hold on your way, dear children, that way which many of you have 
been favored to see. Although it is a way of self-denial and the daily 
cross, wherein we have to deny ourselves all things which we believe 
to be wrong, yet I have a testimony in my heart, obtained by living 
experience, that it's a way of pleasantness, a path of substantial peace. 
Hold on then, in this blessed way,- I entreat you, as a father that 
loves you, that those good desires which many of you feel in your 
minds may be strengthened, your hands being washed in innocency 
from the defilements and spots of this world's spirit, so that you may 
acceptably compass the altar of your God. 

Accept this little tribute of my affectionate regard, and be sure, 
dear children, above all things keep in remembrance your Creator, in 
the days of your youth, and believe me, the observance of this counsel 
(which I trust is imparted through the flowings of the love of God) is 
not a vain thing unto you. Farewell ! 

John Mott. 



262 Appendix. 



"Ancient Memoranda." 

[Sources, except of the first, not given by M. S H.] 

I. 

"Be it remembered that on the 12th day of First Month, in the 
year 1670, in the dwelling-house of Thomas Camm, of Cammgill, within 
the County of Westmoreland, was present Matthew Jepson of Lan- 
caster, and Rebecca Camm, of the aforesaid Cammgill, when and 
where the said Matthew Jepson did, voluntarily and publicly, marry 
and take to wife the said Rebecca Camm, and hereof we whose names 
are underwritten, amongst many others are witnesses. 

Thomas Camm, John Strong, Thomas Green, and sixteen other 
Friends." 

A true copy, taken by H. H., from the original, which was on 
a piece of paper four inches broad, and six inches long, in the pos- 
session of M. Jepson of Lancaster. 

II. 

"At a Monthly Meeting held at Falmouth, this second of Eleventh 
Month, 1673, Friends having met together in the fear of the Lord, 
found all things well and in order, and so departed in love, giving 
God the glory — who is blessed forever." 

III. 
"Twentieth of Ninth Month, 1688. It is concluded that the 
Friends appointed in every Particular Meeting, shall give notice pub- 
licly in the meeting, that cross-pockets before men's coats, side slopes, 
broad hems on cravats, and over full skirted coats, are not allowed 
by Friends." 

IV. 

"Seventeenth of Ninth Month, 1691. It being discovered that 
the common excess of smoking Tobacco is inconsistent with our holy 
profession, this meeting adviseth that such as have occasion to make 
use of it, take it privately, neither in their labor nor employment, nor 
by the highway, nor [at] ale-houses, nor elsewhere, too publicly." 



Appendix. 263 



v. 



"First of Fifth Month, 1693. Minute seventh before a Query 
offered to the Quarterly Meeting, concerning Friends making, order- 
ing, or selling striped cloths, silks or stuffs, or any sort of flowered, 
figured things of different coulars ; it is the judgement of the Quarterly 
Meeting that Friends ought to stand clear of such things." 



Some Account of the Conversion of a Deist. 



HV l.VCOB GREAVES. 



On my way home from Baltimore Yearly Meeting, I fell in 
company with Jacob Hocket, from Wabash, Indiana. In the course 
of conversation he gave me the following account of a man that had 
been a confirmed deist, many years. One morning he said, "I am 
sixty years old to-day ; I will go to Quaker Meeting ! " He accord- 
ingly went to one which Priscilla Hunt attended. After the meeting 
was gathered and still, she arose and spoke thus : " I am sixty years 
old to-day. I will go to Quaker Meeting." These words I believe 
were spoken this morning by one that is present, whose mind is in 
a dreadful situation. I know not who it is. She then described his 
condition, and said that as arguments would arise in his mind she 
would confute them as pointedly as if she heard him speak them (to 
which he since owns), till he was entirely disarmed of them all. She 
then sat down, but in a few moments rose again, and asserted that 
she had gained her point ; that he was divested of his false argu- 
ments ; and unless he should again solicit the revival of them, he 
might live in that way which would lead to peace and salvation. 

On the next meeting day he attended again, when Priscilla 
kneeled in supplication ; he also kneeled, which very much astonished 
those present. 

After meeting he made known the state of his mind, and soon 
after requested to be received into membership with Friends, since 
which time he has lived the life of a steady, sober, religious Friend — 
that is to say for two years. 



264 Appendix. 



m ISC E LLARE D US PAPERS. 



A Journey to Ohio. 

Eighth Month 24th, 1854. — We left home about eight o'clock, 
A. M., met our friends in Philadelphia, took lunch, and before one P. 
M., were on the " lightning train," bound for Wheeling, via Baltimore. 
In fifty-two minutes we were in Wilmington, and in time proportionate 
at Havre de Grace. The weather being warm, and the road dusty, 
the change from car to boat, though for a short time, was delightful. 
The cool and gentle breeze from the water was exhilarating, and the 
undulating motion of the boat caused the sunbeams to play prettily on 
the surface. The prospect on either side of the river was pleasing, 
and the country through which we passed, though somewhat dry, 
indicated for the most part a favorable season, thus presenting a scene 
cheering to the eye of the beholder, and gladdening to the heart of 
the industrious husbandman. Nature seemed to smile as we viewed 
her in her varied aspects. 

Evidences of man's ingenuity and perseverance are presented, 
travel where we may. Evidences, too, that if he will not be provident 
and labor for his sustenance, he must pay the penalty for his negli- 
gence, by suffering from want and misery. 

We .arrived in Baltimore about five o'clock. We took supper 
at a tavern, where we were supplied by a girl in her teens, who also 
took the place of bar-tender, and handed out the poisonous cup to 
the sterner sex. Poor girl ! It grieved us to see one who, under 
right tuition, might rise to eminence, or at least move in a sphere 
more creditable to her womanhood, exposed to such degradation. 
But she was probably under the influence of parents whose lives 
reflect dishonor upon themselves, and bring misery upon their help- 
less offspring. We left her with a sigh, and again pursued our jour- 
ney. We were comfortably accommodated in the ladies' saloon-car, 
and our only companion in the apartment was a lone woman bound 
for St. Louis. 

The evening was fine, and our spirits were buoyant enough to 
enjoy the prospect so far as it should be visible after night-fall. We 
passed swiftly along from place to place, observing with interest the 



Appendix. 265 

exhibition of the freaks of nature and the ingenuity of man. As the 
shades of night gathered around us, the prospect ahead, and the 
danger attendant upon midnight travel by railroad, through a moun- 
tainous region, caused serious reflections ; but with me all fears were 
hushed by the remembrance of the recommendation to trust in the 
care of Providence. 

" The Lord my pasture shall prepare, 

And lead me with a Shepherd's care ; 
His presence shall my wants supply, 

And guard me with a watchful eye. 
My noonday walks He shall attend 

And all my midnight hours defend " 

We ascended the eastern slope of the Blue Mountains by a zig- 
zag course, and on our way met a long train of cars loaded with 
stone, passing rapidly by us, while our locomotive seemed to be jerk- 
ing, and frequently stopping and starting. We observed that great 
precaution against accidents was taken, by way of lighting the track, 
watching the rails, testing the wheels of the cars, &c. In the tunnels, 
and at many of the curves, were stationary lamps of great brilliancy. 
The latter enabled us to see portions of the country through which 
we were wending our way. People work early and late, indoors and 
outdoors, each at his calling. At a late hour we saw a man plying 
his needle, perhaps to fulfill a promise and thus be true to his word, 
or possibly to provide for his wife and hopeful progeny the necessaries 
of life. It was near one A. M. when we neared Martinsburg, and 
heard the ringing of bells, the sound of music, and the voices of the 
multitude. The colored people, male and female, were hilarious as 
they " toated " their refreshments from car to car and offered them to 
the sleepy passengers. I told J. A. that many slaves were here, and 
repeated, in a loud whisper, some lines from my favorite Cowper : 

" I would not have a slave to till my ground, 
To carry me, to fan me while I sleep, 
And tremble when I wake, for all the wealth 
That sinews bought and sold have ever earned." 

Perhaps this quotation, or else the supposition that we were 

"Quakers," drew around us our colored friends, from those of 

sombre shade to some who were almost white. One bright youth 

especially attracted me, for I thought that it only needed the skilful 

18 



266 Appendix. 

artist to bring a choice piece of sculpture out of that stone — a man of 
eminence might be evolved from this boy of mirth. 

As our train sped away, we enjoyed looking at the firmament, 
for the clear atmosphere enabled us to see the stars in all their bril- 
liancy. Before reaching the Alleghenies the day dawned upon us, 
and as we ascended them the sun arose in all his brightness. Our 
way lay up giddy heights, while on one side of us were fearful preci- 
pices and on the other huge rocks or high lands with tall forest trees 
rising one above another. We looked down on the tops of tall 
trees, and yet were far beneath the roots of those on the other hand. 
Though dangerous to appearance, yet safe was our journey, and very 
extensive the grand panorama spread out before us. 

At Oakland, a neat little village near the summit of the moun- 
tain, we had a comfortable breakfast, and were allowed sufficient time 
to take it without any haste. 

We passed through several tunnels, one of which was 3,400 feet 
long. The darkness, though relieved by many lights., the coolness of 
the air, and the reverberated sound of bell and the different noises 
made by the train, produced a feeling of solemnity which must be 
experienced before it can be appreciated. It is exalting in its char- 
acter, and it leads — as mighty works of nature, and wondrous feats 
of art always do lead — to an adoration of the First Cause of all. 

In Western Virginia we began to see evidences of a parching 
drought, and the lively green of summer was changed to the dull 
yellow of autumn. There was a gentle breeze, and though clear 
above us, fog and floating white clouds were on the mountain side 
beneath. 

About one p. m. we reached Wheeling, a place of considerable 
business, and enveloped in a cloud of smoke. Near the city are iron 
foundries, from the huge chimneys of which issues smoke ; and as the 
coal used is bituminous the smoke is very dark-colored, thick and 
oppressive. After an attempt to get rid of the coal dust, we left 
Wheeling in a vehicle called a hack, the manager of which rode on 
horseback, leaving Isaac to take the reins. We wound around the 
highlands on a plank road, on the verge, in many places, of precipices. 
We crossed the Ohio, and then went by a road so curving at one 
place, as nearly to form an O. A journey of five miles brought us to 
the home of Friend W., where we were cordially welcomed. The 
house is so elevated as to command an extensive prospect of hill and 



Appendix. 267 

valley, timber-land and cleared farms. It is a fine agricultural country, 
and many of the farms do credit to their owners. Next morning we 
left this comfortable and hospitable abode, and were taken by I. W. 
six miles to meeting at Mount Pleasant. After meeting went to Samuel 
Griffith's, which is to be our home during the time of the Yearly Meet- 
ing. 

Our hearts were saddened by the sight of the withering effects 
of the long continued drought. The ears of corn are shriveled, and 
the fields of withered pasture are brown and dusty. Flowers in door- 
yards are withered and fading in early bloom. The water supply is 
insufficient to satisfy the thirst of the cattle, which is increased by the 
prevalence of dust. There are many cases of dysentery in the different 
neighborhoods, and some Friends have been deterred from coming 
to Yearly Meeting on account of its reported prevalence. We have 
not found serious indisposition anywhere, and we ourselves, have 
been favored to keep remarkably well, notwithstanding the heat and 
drought. 

Almost daily, gathering clouds were seen, but they would dis- 
perse before evening, and afford brilliant sunsets. So it continued 
during the week — hot, dry, and very dusty. The dependent farmer 
has to wait, not being able to command the clouds to distill the rain 
or to descend in gentle and refreshing dew. 

On Third-day we dined at the home of E. Griffith, Samuel's 
mother. Her grandfather was a brother to John Woolman. On 
Fourth-day we were at Aaron Packer's, and on Fifth-day, at the 
close of the meeting, we went to Ann Packer's. Twenty-five Friends 
supped, lodged and breakfasted there. 

Next morning started on our way to Salem. Stopped at Reason 
Baker's to dine. There is the same general aspect of drought, but it 
is relieved by strips of country that have been visited by refreshing 
showers. Before night-fall we arrived at Harlem Springs, where we 
passed the night at a comfortable hotel. It is a place of summer resort. 
Met a number of Friends going to their Yearly Meeting, of the other 
branch. Eleven of them, and the same number of us, passed the 
evening together very pleasantly. From the Springs we journeyed 
on, via Mechanicstown, &c. , toward Salem. The drought, or the 
evidences of it, more distressing than any that we have heretofore 
seen. Cattle, sheep and swine look hungry, thirsty and hot ; the 
trees have been stripped of their boughs, as far up as the cattle 



268 Appendix. 

could reach, and many large forest trees are about to die for want 
of nutriment from the soil. 

Our axle-tree broke, but we were kindly aided in getting it 
repaired ; and while we were waiting in the barn, the wife of the 
carpenter who lived at the place, and who had rendered such timely 
aid, came out and invited us to dinner. She would take no denial, 
so we went in, and were made very welcome. Their home had the 
appearance of comfort and plenty. 

We went on to William Reader's (in Samuel McLain's carriage) 
and arrived there before night, fatigued, warm and dusty. William 
and his wife Lydia, have an interesting family of children. Next 
morning attended Sandy Spring Meeting, and went to David Batton's 
to dine, and went thence over a very hilly road to Salem. The 
gardens are parched, and water is too scarce to admit of its being 
taken to irrigate them. Salem is a pretty place, even in this dry 
season. We stopped with Samuel and Fanny Trip, and next day 
rode out in a buggy to Samuel French's. After visiting at S. Hunt's 
and calling on some other Friends, we left for home. 



Moorestown Boarding School. 

This institution was so closely associated with the life of our 
subject, that it seems worthy of a passing note. 

It was established by Isaac and Mary S. Lippincott, and was 
opened for the reception of pupils in the spring of 1842. 

When Isaac purchased the property there was an old stone 
dwelling-house on it, that had stood at the time of the Revolution. 
To this he built an addition before the opening of the school, and 
some years later another, both of which were of frame. The building, 
composed of these three parts, stood until after the property had been 
sold by M. S. L., at whose request the new owner called it "Rosa- 
mond." After the removal of a part of the building, and alterations 
in the remaining parts, it was fitted up for a summer boarding-house, 
under the name of " Rosamond Tnn." It was thu,s used for several 
seasons, but latterly it has remained closed all the year. 

The Boarding School was continued from 1842 to 1879, and the 
Day school one year longer, the latter being abandoned in Sixth 
Month, 18S0. 



Appendix. 269 

Of the teachers Ellen Thomas had the longest term, having 
taught in the school from 1848 to 1880 — thirty-two years; Rebecca 
W. Oakford taught thirteen years ; Mary Emma Satterthwaite, ten 
years ; Susan Roberts, nine years ; Abigail Woolman, five years ; and 
Edith Newlin, Susan M. Chalfonte and several others were teachers 
there for short periods. 

The largest number of pupils at any time was ninety, and the 
average for many years was from seventy to eighty. 

The health of the pupils was generally very good, but in cases 
of illness, Dr. Woolman, while he continued to practice, and after 
his retiring, the two Drs. Stokes were the attending physicians. The 
professional services of these were very satisfactory to the Principal 
of the School, who felt the weight of her responsibility in caring for 
the sick, when they were far away from home and parents. 

Daniel P. Lippincott, Isaac's only son who lived to the age of 
manhood, died some years before his father, so that at the time of 
Isaac's death, the one to take his place in business matters, and in 
the charge of the family, was his oldest grandson, Isaac L. Woolman. 
He came to live with Mary and her daughters, and took the place 
of a son and a brother. He transacted the business, took charge of 
the farm, and proved himself a devoted caretaker. About five years 
he occupied this position, and to the end of her life, Mary looked to 
him for advice and assistance, as she would have done to her own 
child. She appreciated his business ability, and felt grateful for his 
kindness to herself and daughters. 

Daniel P. Lippincott, Jr., after he was fifteen years old, was also 
a member of the family, and though much of his time was passed at 
boarding schools, yet grandmother's house was his home. 

Among the pupils were found quite a number of the second, 
and possibly, of the third generation. It would be interesting to 
hear mother and daughter comparing experience of the happy days 
passed at the Moorestown home, and of the many pleasant memories 
associated with the place. But whatever changes time had made, 
however different might be the surroundings, there was one point 
that remained fixed, one condition that did not change, and that was 
the never-failing kindness of "Aunt Mary." In all her writings, with 
the frequent allusion to school and to family, she does not once, in all 
those thirty-eight years, speak of having an undesirable pupil or 
teacher in the institution. Is not this strong negative testimony, 



270 Appendix. 

confirmed by much, very much, that is positive, to prove her fitness 
for being at the head of a boarding-school ? It is probable that not a 
few of her pupils bade her farewell with subdued emotion, and with 
the good resolution which they carried out, and of which they are 
now receiving the benefit. 

" We will treasure up thy precepts, 
They may be, in future years, 
Balm to soothe our saddened spirits, 
Strength to banish doubts and fears." 



Brief Reminiscences. 
One winter some cases of varioloid having occurred in the large 
family of Mary S. Lippincott, it caused a suspension of intercourse 
with the neighbors. After several weeks of this isolation, two of her 
friends (they were elderly men, and probably had been inoculated in 
the old-fashioned way), who had no fear of the contagion, came to 
make her a visit. Great indeed was her surprise, and no less her 
gratification, on meeting these valued friends, who had come so far to 
see her and t<> encourage her. They dined, and remained several 
hours in the house, and when they bade her farewell, she said, in the 
fullness of her heart, / now feel as if I could stand a fast of forty 
days. The friends were Samuel Willits of Nevi York city, and Samuel 
J. Underbill, of Jericho, L. I. 

A visitor gives the following : — It was my privilege, at different 
times, to be a guest at the Moorestown home of Mary S. Lippincott, 
and hence to know what it was to receive her cordial welcome and to 
enjoy her hospitality. It seemed to be one, among the many, of her 
gifts, to lead the conversation from that which was cheerful and even 
sprightly, to themes of graver import, and thus to introduce the 
serious and all-important subject of religion without any seeming 
violation of the social courtesies, or of that deep sense of reverence 
which she was so careful to preserve in herself and to cherish in those 
who were under her care. 

Once when I was there, at sunset, she called attention to the 
brilliancy of the Western sky, and then quoted from her favorite poet, 
Cowper : 

" Scenes must be beautiful which daily viewed 
Please daily, and whose novelty survives 
Long knowledge and the scrutiny of years ; 
Praise justly due to those which I describe." 



Appendix. 271 

When the hour for retiring came, the guests were invited to ac- 
company her into the large school-room, and to attend the evening- 
collection. One of these occasions is vividly remembered after the 
lapse of nearly thirty-five years. It was on a Seventh-day evening, 
and the social mingling in the parlor had been not only pleasant, but 
unusually sprightly. At the appointed time we repaired to the school- 
room, and after we had taken our seats there was a solemn pause of 
suitable length for all to feel the weightiness of the occasion. Then, 
Mary opened the large Family Bible, and read the fortieth chapter of 
Isaiah with such reverence and such pathos as seemed to give an 
unction to the words as they flowed from her lips. The dignity of 
her presence, the gravity of her manner, and the benignity of her 
countenance could scarcely have failed to have a solemnizing effect 
upon the pupils, whose solid deportment was their silent response to 
the reading, and the seal of their appreciation of the deference due 
to the Book. 

Once, when attending a Yearly Meeting of Ministers and Elders, 
our friend expressed a concern for these members, as they are looked 
upon as the heads of their meetings. The concern had reference to 
the example which they should set of weightiness of manner and of 
appearance in our religious meetings. 

She referred to the Scriptural account of the Queen of Sheba, 
who in her admiration of the beautiful order in Solomon's household, 
did not fail to notice the sitting of his servants. 

A young minister who was present on the occasion, was much 
impressed with her concern, and with the effect of it upon the meet- 
ing. It is to this (then) young man, that we are indebted for the 
account of that exercise. 



An Appointed Meeting at Millville, New Jersey. 

[The Friend who was present, and who gives the account of this 
meeting, does not remember the year.] 

Our dear friend, Mary S. Lippincott, had an evening meeting 
appointed at her request, in the Presbyterian place of worship at Mill- 
ville, New Jersey. 

The assembly was large, and was made up almost entirely of 
those who were but little acquainted with Friends or with their 



272 Appendix. 

principles. She seemed to be wonderfully strengthened by Divine 
power to explain some of the main doctrines that we as a Society 
own. She dwelt largely on the light within, or the power of God 
unto salvation, by and through Jesus Christ, our Lord, establishing 
the Sonship between God the Father and his children, by and through 
the living Christ, which would ever lead away from the perishing 
things of this lower world, up to the things that pertain to a higher 
life. She also called all, in a powerful and feeling maimer, to let go of 
the idea that man could save his brother, or give to God a ransom for 
his soul. She felt that, with some that were present, there was too 
much of a dependence upon man, instead of looking up to a Higher 
Power. 

It was a favored opportunity, and we seemed to be dipped into 
fellowship and love together, under the power of Christ, through this 
dedicated servant. 

Two men, both of whom were ministers, came to Mary after the 
close of the meeting, and told her that they had come there partly 
out of curiosity to hear a woman preach ; but that they had been both 
instructed and edified, for her explanation of the light within, or the 
power of God unto salvation, was the most satisfactory they had ever 
heard. 



First-day Schools. 

At one of the last meetings (perhaps the last) of the Repre- 
sentative Committee of Philadelphia Yearly Meeting, that Mary S. 
Lippincott ever attended, she was much exercised on the subject of 
First-day schools. Notwithstanding the interest that she had formerly 
taken in this work, she seemed now to have grave apprehensions lest 
these schools might absorb the interest which should be felt in our 
religious' meetings ; adding emphatically, If it is so, do let the First- 
day schools go. She impressed upon the members of the committee 
the importance of the matter, and wished them to take it home with 
them, and to consider it weightily. 

She expressed the same apprehension to a Friend who visited 
her a few weeks before her death, and found her exercised on account 
of the state of the Societv. 



Appendix. 273 

From Her Physician. 

My first acquaintance with Mary S. Lippinrcott was soon after 
her removal to Camden, in the year 1881. From this date until the 
end of her life, I was often called to see her professionally, and I 
came to regard her as an interesting and somewhat remarkable char- 
acter. The unclouded intellect at her time of life, the interest mani- 
fested in current events, the patience in suffering, and the deep, re- 
ligious trust, all combined to render her a good example of one 
green in old age. 

The last time that I saw her was only about half an hour before 
her close. Even at that late period her mind was clear, still showing 
that remarkable force of character and Christian faith so characteristic 
of her long and well-spent life. 

Alexander M. Mecray, M. D. 



The Schumacher or Shoemaker Family. 



The earliest information we have of the Shoemaker family, is 
that obtained from " Besse's Sufferings of Friends. " From this it 
appears, that in the year 1657, William Ames and George Rolfe, 
English Friends, visited Kreisheim, now Kriegsheim, a small village 
situated on the right bank of the Rhine, in the Palatinate, whose 
inhabitants were mostly farmers. Among these simple-minded peo- 
ple, these Ministers made many converts to their faith, who soon 
began to suffer persecution. In 1663 a hne of five shillings was im- 
posed on each person, every time they assembled for worship ; to 
collect it, their cattle and household goods were seized, and sold, 
they declining voluntarily to pay the same Among those whose 
names appear the oftenest are. George and Peter Schumacher. A 
few years ago Professor Seidensticker, of Philadelphia, hoping to get 
earlier data of them, visited Kriegsheim, but learned that a fire, in 
1S4S, had destroyed the church records, so that nothing further could 
be obtained. 

In 1680, William Penn learned of the persecutions they were 
undergoing, and visited them, inviting them to join him in the Prov- 
ince he was then founding, now the great State of Pennsylvania. 
This they gladly accepted, and it led to the formation of the Frank- 
ford Company, who secured 5,350 acres, about six miles north of 
Philadelphia. On this spot they located. The first to arrive came 
in 1683; among them was Jacob Schumacher. There is no way now 
of knowing positively, but most likely he was a brother of George 
and Peter, and bring single, apparently, he probably acted as a 
pioneer, to report the kind of place it was. 

The ground on which the Friends' Meeting House stands, Ger- 
mantown Ave. and Coulter St., was given by him for the purpose. 
We find the following in the Borough and Court Records of Ger- 
mantown : " 1692, the 29th day of 9th Month. John Silans (upon 
Jacob Schumacher's complaint) promised before this Court to finish 
the said Jacob Schumacher's barn within four weeks next coming." 



Appendix. 275 

How primitive this now appears to us ; there were no fines or penal- 
ties attached for nonfulfillment, but simply the delinquent's promise 
exacted. The late Joseph S. Paxson was much interested in his 
Shoemaker genealogy, which he worked back to Jacob and Mar- 
garet, but could not discover satisfactorily who Jacob was. After 
investigation, I became convinced, and I think he did too, that it 
was this Jacob, who removed in 17 14-15 from Abington to Phila- 
delphia (Germantown Meeting Records were kept at Abington at 
this time), with his wife, two sons, and daughter Susannah. His wife 
was Margaret Gove, but the date of their marriage is not known. 

Jacob's Will is dated 9 Mo. 22nd, 1722, by which he leaves to 
his son-in-law, John Breintwall (no doubt Susannah's husband) five 
shillings ; to his wife Margaret the remainder, to be divided at her 
death between his three sons, George, Thomas and Jacob. Jacob 
married Elizabeth Roberts, and had three sons — Thomas, and David 
and Jonathan, twins. From Jonathan, who married Sarah Lownes, 
comes what I may term the Paxson- Hathway-Pickering line. 

Jacob's report to those of his kin must have been favorable, as 
the following shows: "The Francis & Dorothy from London, Rich- 
ard Bridgeman, Commander, arrived in Phila. 10 Mo. 12th, 1685. 
Among the passengers were Peter Schumacher and Peter his sonn, 
Sarah his Cosen, and Frances and Gertrude his daughters." Peter 
seems to have taken an active part in the affairs of the new town, 
as his name is mentioned in various capacities. In the Records of 
Abington Meeting, appears the marriage of Peter, jr., to Margaret 
Op den Graeff, daughter of Herman Op den GraefF, 2nd Mo. 6th, 
1697. The two fathers are among the witnesses. 

Peter, Jr., and Margaret Shoemaker had ten children, and no 
doubt there are numerous descendants, but I have never come 
across them. Elwood Michener, of Toughkenamon, Pa., has a gene- 
alogical tree of their descendants, prepared by his father, the late 
Dr. Ezra Michener. 

The next of the family to come, are of more interest to us, as 
from them the most of those bearing the name are descended. They 
were George, Sarah his wife, and their seven children ; George, Jr. , 
23 years of age; Barbary, 20; Abraham, 19; Isaac, 17; Susanna, 
13 ; Elizabeth, 11, and Benjamin, 10. They sailed in the ship Jeffer- 
ies, Thomas Arnold, Master, from London, landing at Chester 3 Mo. 



276 Appendix. 

20th, 1686.* They did not, however, all reach here, as the father 
died at sea, of small-pox ; but the widow and her children came on 
to what their English neighbors then called the German Town. Of 
their early struggles we have no account, but they were, no doubt, 
severe. The first of the children to enter matrimony was Isaac, who 
married Sarah, daughter of Gerhard Hendricks, a prominent Friend, 
and one of the signers of the first Protest against Slavery, as will 
appear later. Hendricks had drawn lot No. 8 in the Pastorius di- 
vision of the town, which extended from the Main St. to the Bristol 
Township Line. His house he built about a quarter of a mile from 
the Main St., on the Wingohocking Creek, the Lane leading back 
being known until the last few years as Shoemakers' Lane, and of 
course now being built up. The house stood until torn down in 1840 
(by a person named Mehl), and from its passing to Isaac, through his 
wife, became known as Shoemakers' house ; see its picture in Wat- 
son's Annals. On a large rock, forming a cliff, close to the house, 
William Penn preached to the people assembled below in the meadow. 
On the Rock itself a house still stands, known as the " Rock House," 
and probably used originally for tenants or work people. 

The old Hendricks' Bible is now in the possession of the widow 
of Samuel M. Shoemaker, of Baltimore. It was printed in Zurich, 
A. D. 1538, by C. Fronschover, and has a number of Shoemaker 
records in it. Isaac was a tanner by profession, his yard being located 
on the Main St. above Shoemakers' Lane, about where Harkinson's 
stores now stand. On the north corner of the Lane and Main St. , he 
built, somewhere about 1725, a long two-story house of stone. After 
the manner of the old country, its main entrance was from the rear, 
but a doorway from the Main St. gave the appearance of a three-story 
dwelling. After the battle of Germantown, the British used it as a 
hospital, under the charge of Dr. Moore, whose patients filled every 
room. It remained in the family until purchased by the late George 
G. Thompson, who tore it down in 1843, and erected on its site Cot- 
tage Row. 

Benjamin, a son of Isaac and Sarah, was invited to a seat in the 
Provincial Assembly, at the same time as James Hamilton ; after con- 
sidering two months, he determined to accept, and was qualified 
2 Mo. 4th, 1745-6. He was mayor of Phila. in 1743, 175 1 and 1760, 

* There is an apparent discrepancy of dates, owing to ' ' Old and New 
Style." 



Appendix. 277 

and from 1751 until his death in 1761, City Treasurer. His son 
Samuel, on the father's death, succeeded him as Treasurer. He was 
also Mayor two years, 1769 and 177 1, and served two terms in the 
Assembly, 177 1 and 1773. He likewise had other positions of trust. 
Like most Friends he disapproved of the Revolutionary War, and as 
a consequence his property was confiscated. He went to New York, 
where he was of much service to American prisoners during the war. 
A portion of the time he spent in England, and while there, had an 
interview with George III, under the auspices of his friend Benjamin 
West. The King asked him, "why the Province of Pennsylvania 
improved more than the neighboring Provinces, some of which had 
been earlier settled?" Samuel politely replied to this German King, 
" it was principally due to the Germans ; " and the King as politely 
rejoined, " that the improvement was principally due to the Quakers." 
The King was pleased that he could speak German, and the Queen 
wept when he spoke of the death of his children. Samuel concluded 
that so kind a husband, and considerate a man, could not be a tyrant. 
He returned to this country in 1789, and got back a portion of his 
property, which was secured to him by the Treaty of Peace of 1783. 
He died in 1800. During his residence in Philadelphia, he built a 
fine country-seat in Germantown, on Main St. above Washington 
Lane. This was erected about 1760. During the Revolutionary 
War it was filled with tailors and shoemakers, employed in making 
goods for the army. Of latter years it was known as " Pomona," 
and belonged to Amos R. Little. 

A writer speaking of this period says, " There are no names 
more cherished at home, and more deservedly known abroad, than 
those of Wister, Shoemaker, Muhlenberg, etc." The late Samuel M. 
Shoemaker, of Baltimore, who stood very high in the community, and 
was extensively engaged in commercial enterprises, was a grandson 
of Samuel, the Mayor. From this line of Isaac and Sarah, descend 
what is known as the Shoemaker-Rawle-Morris-Pennington branch. 
For a fuller account of them, see Keith's "Provincial Councillors." 
Isaac's sister Susanna, married on the 4th day of 1st Month, 1696, 
at the house of Richard Wall, according to the good order of Friends, 
Isaac, son of Phillip Price. 

Witnesses present — William Jenkins, Richard Wall, Richard 
Townsend, Jon. Roberts, Robert Owen, with many others. From 
this line came the late Eli K. Price, who in a little volume called 



278 Appendix. 

"The Family," has traced out their branch. George Shoemaker, 
the eldest of the emigrant children, did not marry until he had 
been in this country eight years (probably the burden of supporting 
his fatherless brothers and sisters came on him), and when he did, 
his selection was Sarah, granddaughter and only heir of Richard Wall. 
The venerable old marriage certificate is still owned by a descendant, 
and is dated 12 Mo. 14th, 1694. It commences thus: "Whereas, 
George Shoemaker and Sarah Wall, both of the township of Chelten- 
ham, in the county of phylladelfia, having declared theyre Intentions 
of taking each other as husband and wife before several publique 
meetings of the people of God called Quakers, according to the good 
order and use Amongst them, whose proceedings," etc. 

George signs it in his native German script, while Sarah attaches 
her new name, in English, in a bold, clear hand, spelling it Shew- 
maker, a curious variation from the mode in which her numerous 
descendants spell the now wide-spread name. 

Richard Wall, as a direct ancestor of the Shoemaker family, and 
from the prominent position he held, is worthy of mention. He was 
an English Friend, who, according to the Records at Harrisburg, had 
several tracts granted to him in the years 1682, 1683, and 1684, in 
Phila. Count)-, on the Ouesenoming, now called Tacony Creek. It' 
consisted of 600 acres of land, most beautifully situated, in what is 
now the heart of Chelton Hills, and covered with many of the hand- 
somest country-seats around Philadelphia. 

I have little question, that his house, which was of stone, still 
stands, and forms the back building, or rear, of Joseph Bosler's dwel- 
ling. It was quite customary in those days, when .Meeting Houses 
were not plentiful, to use a private dwelling for the purpose of wor- 
shipping in. This was done with his house ; the meeting being after- 
ward known as Abington Meeting ; though at the early period in 
question, called Dublin Meeting. So closely identified were these, 
our ancestors, with a noteworthy historical incident, that it must be 
an excuse for placing it here in full. It was the first Protest against 
Slavery issued in this country. The original is in the possession of 
Friends at 4th & Arch Sts. 

" This is to the Monthly Meeting held at Rigerts Worrels.* These 
are the reasons why we are against the traffick of mens-body as fol- 



Richard Wall's. 



Appendix. 279 

loweth : Is there any that would be done or handled at this manner ? 
viz : to be sold or made a slave for all time of his life ? How fearfull 
& fainthearted are so many on sea, when they see a strange vessel, 
being afraid it should be a Turck, and they should be tacken and sold 
for slaves in Turckey. Now what is better done as Turcks doe? yea 
is it worse for them, wch say they are Christians, for we hear, that y p 
most part of such Negers are brought heither against their will & con- 
sent, and that many of them are stollen. Now, tho' they are black, 
we cannot conceive there is more liberty to have them slaves, as it is 
to have other white ones. There is a saying, that we shall doe to all 
men, licke as we will be done ourselves : inacking no difference of 
what generation, descent, or Colour the)- arc. 

"And those who steal or robb men, and those who buy or pur- 
chase them, are they not all alicke. Here is liberty of Conscience, 
wch is right & reasonable, here ought to be lickewise liberty of y° 
body, except of evildoers, wch is an other case. But to bring men 
hither, or to robb and sell them against their will, we stand against. 
In Europe there are many oppressed for Conscience sacke ; here there 
are many oppressed wch are of a black Colour. And we, who know, 
that men must not commit adultery, some doe committ adultery in 
others, separating wifes from husbands, and giving them to others, 
and some sell the children of those poor creatures to other men. 
Oh ! doe consider well this things, you who doe it, if you would be 
done at this manner ? and if it is done according Christianity ? you 
surpass Holland & Germany in this thing. This mackes an ill report 
in all those Countries of Europe, where they hear off, that y e Quakers 
doe here handle men, Licke they handle there y" Cattle ; and for that 
reason some have no mind or inclination to come hither. And who 
shall maintaine this your cause, or plaid for it ? Truely we can not do 
so, except you shall inform us better hereoff, viz : that christians have 
liberty to practise this thing. Pray ! What thing in the world can be 
worse towarts us then if men robb or steal us away & sell us for slaves 
to strange Countries, separating housband from their wife and chil- 
dren. Being now this not done at that manner we will be done at, 
thereforr we contradict & are against this trafnek of men body. And 
we profess that it is not lawfull to steal, must lickewise avoid to pur- 
chase such things as are stolen, but rather help to stop this robbing 
and stealing if possible, and such men ought to be delivered out of y e 
hands of y e Robbers, and set free as well as in Europe. 



280 Appendix. 

' ' Then is Pensilvania to have a good report, in stead it hath now 
a bad one for this sacke in other Countries. Especially whereas y c 
Europeans are desirous to know in what manner y B Quakers doe rule 
in their Province, & most of them doe loock upon us with an envious 
eye. But if this is done well, what shall we say, is done evil ? If once 
these slaves (wch they say are so wicked and stubborn men) should 
joint themselves, fight for their freedom, and handel their masters & 
mastrisses, as they did handel them before ; will these masters & mas- 
trisses tacke the sword at hand & warr against these poor slaves, 
licke, we believe, some will not refuse to doe ? or have these negers 
not as much right to fight for their freedom, as you have to keep 
them slaves ? 

" Now consider well this thing, if it is good or bad ? and in case 
you find it to be good, to handle these blacks at that manner, we 
desire & require you hereby lovingly that you may inform us herein, 
which at this time never was done, Viz : that Christians have liberty 
to do so, to the end we shall be satisfied in this point, & satisfie licke- 
wise our good friends and acquaintances in our natif Country, to whose 
it is a terrour or fairfull thing, that men should be handled so in 
Pensilvania. 

"This is from our meeting at Germantown, hold y" 18 of the 
2 month, 1688, to be delivered to the monthly meeting at Richard 
Warrel's [Richard Wall's]. 

gerret hendericks,* 
derick op de graeff, i 
Francis daniell Pastorius.J 
Abraham op den graef. "| 

The Germantown Friends having thus discharged the burden of 
this concern, the missive shortly came before the Monthly Meeting, 
held at the house of Richard Wall. The disposition which this made 
of it is as follows : 

"At our monthly meeting at Dublin, y e 30, 2 mo., 1688, we 
having inspected y f matter above mentioned & considered it, we finde 
it so weighty, that we think it not Expedient for us to meddle with it 
here, but do rather committ it to y e consideration of y" Quarterly 
meeting, y e tennor of it being nearly related to y e truth. 

On behalf of y p monthly meeting, signed, pr. Jo. Hart." 

* Gerhard Hendrick. t Dirck Op den Graeff. \ Francis Daniel Pastorius. 
|| Abraham Op den Graeff. 



Appendix. 281 

It then passed to their next higher meeting, as follows : 
"This above mentioned was Read in our Quarterly meeting at 
Philadelphia, the 4th of y 1 ' 4 mo., '88, and was from thence recom- 
mended to the Yearly Meeting, and the above-said Derick and the 
other two mentioned therein, to present the same to y e above-said 
meeting, it being a thing of too great a weight for this meeting to 
determine. 

Signed by order of y r Meeting, 

Anthony Morris." 

At the Yearly Meeting held at Burlington the 5 day of 7 mo., 
1688, "A paper being presented by some German Friends, Concern- 
ing the Lawfulness and Unlawfulness of buying and Keeping Negroes, 
It was adjudged not to be so proper for this Meeting to give a posi- 
tive Judgement in the case, It having so general a relation to many 
other Parts, and, therefor, at present they forbear it." 

It is not strange that these simple-hearted people, who had 
sacrificed so much in order to secure freedom and religious toleration, 
should have viewed with sorrow the wrong done their colored breth- 
ern ; and they deserve great credit for the effort made against an evil 
that baffled all attempts at its remedy by our greatest statesmen, for 
nearly two centuries. 

A few years after the marriage of his granddaughter, Richard 
Wall found his health failing, and made his Will as follows : 

" In the name of God, Amen, the fifteenth day of the first month, 
Anno Domini 1697-8, I, Richard Wall, being weak in body, but of 
perfect mind and memory, thanks be the Lord for it, do hereby make 
and ordain this my last Will and Testament, that is to say, Principally 
and first of all, I recommend my soul and spirit unto the hands of our 
faithful Creator and Saviour, my body to be buried in a Christian like 
and decent manner, at the discretion of my dear wife, and executrix, 
and as to touching such worldly estate, wherewith it hath pleased 
God to bless me in this wilderness, I dispose of the same in the fol- 
lowing way and form. Imprimis, &c.' 

One bequest is the following : 

" Item. I freely give and bequeath unto Friends of Cheltenham 
Meeting a certain tract of land containing about six acres, lying and 
being at the South West end of the S d my plantation, and this piece 
of land I give for a burying place, and for the only and sole use of 



282 Appendix. 

friends of the now mentioned Cheltenham Meeting. And I do here- 
with constitute, make and ordain the above said my granddaughter, 
Sarah Shoemaker, my only Executor, requiring that this my last will 
and testament may in all points be accomplished and fulfilled. In 
witness whereof I have hereunto set my hand and seal." 

I have been unable to find any record which furnishes the date 
of Richard's death ; but my reason for thinking it was soon after his 
Will was made, is from the fact that he makes his mark, which would 
indicate extreme weakness, and the close proximity of death, as 1 have 
little question a man of his standing knew how to write. 

The Burying Ground thus provided for, is beautifully located on 
Cheltenham Ave., or as the country folks called it in times past, 
" Grave Yard Lane." About half an acre is enclosed with a stone 
wall, and all is in excellent order ; owing much of latter time to the 
care and attention bestowed on it by Robert Shoemaker. Almost in 
the middle are two large box-bushes, under which, tradition says, 
lie the bodies of Richard Wall and his wife. 

It is said a Log Meeting House at one time stood alongside of 
the ground ; if this was so, all traces, even of the foundation, have 
gone ; so it cannot be verified. The Ground has always gone by the 
name of " Shoemaker Burying Ground ; " but as we have seen in the 
Will, it is not strictly a family one. though as a matter of fact, the 
majoritv of those interred there bear the name of Shoemaker, or are 
allied to it by marriage. About a r^o years ago, Cheltenham Meet- 
ing was absorbed by Abington Meeting, and since that time this 
burial place has been held by Trustees (Special i, appointed by the 
Meeting. Of late, few interments have taken place within its limits. 
The earliest stone is that of Isaac, dated S Mo. 23d, 1 741 . Friends 
in those days did not approve of marking the last resting place of the 
departed, so that there are comparatively few stones. For the follow- 
ing list of those named Shoemaker, interred here, I am indebted to 
Robert Shoemaker : 

8 Mo. 23d, 1 74 1, Isaac, son of George & Sarah Shoemaker, 
aged 41. 

175S, Elizabeth, wife of Isaac. (Not the Isaac above. ) 

1762, Amy. Widow of Abraham. 

1 764, ( ieorge, ' ' of Cheltenham. " 

1764, Dorothy, widow of Isaac who died in 17 .j 1 . 

1704, Isaae. 



Hpperidix. 283 

1765, Elizabeth, daughter of Isaac. 

1775, Benjamin, son of Isaac. 

1775, Arnold. 

1779, Isaac, son of John & Elizabeth, aged 24. 

1782, Susanna, wife of William. 

1783, Elizabeth, daughter of Jonathan. 
1783, Sarah, daughter of George. 

1793, 3 Mo. 17th, Mary, wife of Benjamin. (Grandmother of 
M. S. L.) 

1793, ro Mo. 22nd, Benjamin, Jr. 

1793, n Mo. 14th, Mary Allen Shoemaker. 

1793, 11 Mo. 15th, Mary, wife of Thomas. (The writer's great- 
grandmother.) 

x 795> 5 Mo. 30th, Elizabeth, wife of John. 

181 1, Benjamin. (His wife was a Comly & died in 1793, see 
above.) 

1826, 8 Mo. 1 2th, Mary, daughter of Thomas & Hannah, aged 
20 years. 

1827, Hannah, wife of Thomas. 

1837, 2 Mo. nth, Thomas (Husband of Mary who died 1793). 
Aged 74. 

1 84 1, n Mo., Ellis C. , aged 21 years. 

1843, Comly, son of Benjamin & Mary, aged 68. 

1845, Sarah, widow of Comly. 

1849, 12 Mo. 23d, Martha, widow of Robert, aged 90. (Grand- 
mother of Robert & Benjamin ; her husband died of Yellow Fever in 
1795, and was interred at 4th & Arch Sts.)' 

1852, 6 Mo. 12th, Margaret, widow of Thomas. (He had three 
wives. ) 

There were other interments, not noted, but which we are almost 
sure took place, as for instance, George, and his wife, Sarah Wall 
Shoemaker, etc. 

After the death of Richard Wall the place began to be known as 
Shoemaker's, and as a little village grew up, it naturally took on the 
name of Shoemakertown. 

>i< ^ % %. ^ * * . 

A small number of the family of George and Sarah Wall Shoe- 
maker remain around the old site at Shoemakertown, many have 
located in the neighboring counties, a few drifted back to the first 



284 Appendix. 

home of the family in Germantown, while others again have wandered 
to the remotest parts of the country. It is, however, a little remark- 
able, that so many have remained true to the faith for which their 
ancestors sacrificed their home and country, settling in a wilderness, 
in order to enjoy religious toleration. 

Thos. H. Shoemaker. 
Germantown, Ninth Month Sth, 1892. 

[The above is the early part of an elaborate account, prepared by T. H. 
S., of these worthy ancestors, and their numerous descendants. In the re- 
maining portion he traces the different lines down to the present day, and gives 
a number of incidents and anecdotes — some recorded, and some traditional — 
which, taken in their several connections, form a history of great interest to the 
family, and one which would be valuable to the Society of Friends. — Ed.] 



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